Don't Throw That Hot Wheels Truck Away, I Can Fix It

I've seen it happen both with my RX-7 and my bike. I'm still in touch with people who owned them 20 years ago, and they're always nostalgic about selling. Most of my non-car friends thought I was insane for buying a 30+-year-old car that looked terrible inside and out. But I thought to myself: "I can fix this."

Sadly, I've only relied on paying for these services so far, and I've rarely done anything to it with my own hands. After seeing it undergo paint prep, I might just start learning how to do it independently. We shouldn't just throw things away because they're old or in poor shape.

One of my friends has begun restoring old synthesizers to their former shine. My buddy Mike has learned how to rebuild the rotary engine on his RX-8. If you don't want to deal with old electronic items or toys, give them to someone willing to piece them back together.

In 2022, I interviewed an Indonesian diecast artist who builds custom tiny cars for his brand, Tolle Garage. I have been watching Theo work ever since, and it's always nice to see what new project he's taking on next. While many diecast artists focus on transforming a brand-new item into a special vehicle, some have chosen a different path.

Theo opted to visit tiny scrapyards in search of his next big challenge. Restoring Hot Wheels vehicles to their former shine will only cost pocket change if you already have the skills and tools. Sure, Rome wasn't built in a day, but if you'd like to look at the hobby from this perspective, there are plenty of online tutorials to get you started.

Theo restored several Chevrolet models in the past few months, including a 2010 Camaro, a '68 Nova, and an IROC-Z. The best part about watching the process is that the car always looks infinitely better than it did initially. And I knew the transformation of the Chevrolet Silverado wouldn't be any different.

As with any restoration process, disassembling the vehicle is the first thing you must do. Then, it's out with the old and in with the new. If you don't need to become an Internet sensation, you don't need that $30,000 wide-body kit. You'll never use 1,000 hp on the street.

A set of wheels and a paint job will go a long way and won't break the bank while taking you there. And remember, the little details will always make a difference, even if you think new mirrors aren't that important.