Father/Son Classic Car Projects

Every classic car enthusiast has a story of their connection to the hobby, and for many, the story begins at home assisting their father or an older sibling making car repairs or modifications. There is no shortage of father/mother and son/daughter duos at many classic car events, and in large part, these traditions are what keep our hobby alive and growing today. But like these enthusiasts, every car has its story as well, illustrating the journey it took to the become what it is today. But sometimes these father/son teams bring new life into some great rides to fuel each other’s passion for classic car projects.

Recently at a large car event, we had the pleasure of meeting up with Dale and Thor Sohlstrom, a father/son duo who are committed to the car hobby and the pursuit of building safe and reliable classic car projects. Dale’s ’64 Chevrolet Carryall was discovered in Colorado, far from the salt-lined roads of Minnesota, and although the body was solid, it was blessed with a leopard-print interior and its share of deferred maintenance.

Always ready for an adventure, Dale didn’t trailer this ride home; he spent 16 hours getting the ride road-ready before turning the key and driving the 900-plus miles home. After getting it home and making some repairs, another enthusiast wanted it more than Dale wanted to keep it. After he sold the truck, it changed owners a couple more times until Dale once again had a chance to buy it back. Today, Dale refers to it as his “go-to rig,” used for shows, towing, cruise nights, and more, including trips to Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons, and numerous family trips.

It’s Dale’s passion for not only owning classic cars but really driving them that has also fueled his son Thor’s passion for classic cars as well. Thor is no stranger to the road either, and with the family piled into the ‘54 Pontiac Station Wagon, they have clocked thousands of mostly trouble-free miles.

The Sohlstroms admit that when they travel together, it’s Thor’s original paint and patina ride that seems to catch a lot of attention. But if you see either of these great rides, don’t pass up the chance to check them out and hear the full story.