Today we're getting to know Rusto Garage member @SteveA. 👋🏼
That photo is me in my natural habitat...
What brought you to Rusto Garage?
I learned about Rusto Garage from a Facebook post.
What’s your favourite part of this online community?
I like seeing what other members are doing for projects.
How would you describe yourself/occupation to a complete stranger?
I am a retired disabled veteran. My last real job was teaching automotive and diesel technology at a local college.
What interests you most about the automotive world?
I enjoy seeing the new technology as well as the old school stuff.
What automotive projects do you like to focus on?
I enjoy taking an old car or truck and making it better. I have restored more than 400 vehicles over the years. I've done paint and body work, everything mechanical and electrical as well as upholstery...With my physical limitations, it takes longer to get things done.
What is your favorite Rust-Oleum product? How has it helped with your automotive projects?
I really like the spray paint...the color doesn't vary like some other brands do..I have used it on almost every project vehicle for years. The Wipe New tire shine is also a favorite.
What is your favorite automotive project you’ve done and how did you accomplish it?
My dad and I restored a 1964 Chevy short bed pickup a few years back. He was in Missouri and I lived in Indiana at the time. We updated the engine, put an overdrive transmission for long trips, of course, paint and body as well as interior. I took a 2 week vacation and spent it in his garage, then hauled it back to Indy to finish it. The same day I got it out of the garage to test drive, a local sheriff stopped by and offered me a bunch of money for it. I wish I would have kept that one.
What’s the most challenging project you have tackled (or are putting off!)?
That would probably be interior upholstery..The kung fu grip isn't what it used to be...LOL..
If you could create any type of automotive product/project (with no limitations), what would you design and why?
I'm trying to engineer a power back window on my 1996 Silverado. I've seen them on new trucks, but never on an older one.
What is your dream ride?
I want a 1965 GTO coupe. Fontaine blue, blue interior...
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know about you.
Most people are surprised when they find out I taught college for 3 years. I would have stayed longer, but it was a 3 year only temp job. It has to be the best job ever, very rewarding and the pay wasn't bad.
What’s the best advice anyone has ever given you?
My dad always told me that my name is on everything I do, so it better be right.
Kicking back for a relaxing night: what’s your favorite meal? What will you be watching?
My wife and I enjoy watching old movies. Streaming services have made it so easy to become a couch potato. My favorite meal would have to be steak and lobster..and a nice cold adult beverage.
Photo: Our 1966 Mustang...I'm updating the wiring now.
Shop dog: We have a rescue ...Pearl is 2 1/2 years old and still thinks she is a small lapdog. She weighs about 75 lbs. When I'm in the garage, she loves to take my creeper or moving blanket.
Thanks for spending time with us @SteveA.!
