Ep 10. Lust for Rust

In Last Stop Garage season 1 episode 10, titled "Lust for Rust," the crew at CRB Autobody in North West River, Labrador, face a unique challenge when a customer brings in a beautiful Ford Ranchero truck that has been sitting outside for decades and is completely covered in rust. The customer, Wayne, is a collector of old cars and he has a special connection to the Ranchero, having owned one just like it in his youth. However, he is hesitant to restore it to its former glory because he wants it to retain its "patina" – the rusty, worn look that comes with age.

The crew at CRB Autobody is intrigued by Wayne's request and they dive into the challenge of restoring the Ranchero while keeping its rust intact. The first step is to assess the damage and determine how much of the rust needs to be removed for safety reasons. The team uses specialized equipment to sandblast the truck and remove the loose rust while preserving the areas that Wayne wants to keep. They also use a rust converter product that chemically changes the remaining rust into a protective coating that will prevent further corrosion.

Throughout the episode, the team faces a number of obstacles as they work to restore the Ranchero. They run into issues with the brakes and suspension and have to improvise solutions with parts scavenged from other vehicles. They also face a shortage of specialized paint that matches the exact shade of blue that Wayne wants for the truck. However, the crew remains determined and resourceful, using their ingenuity to come up with creative solutions to each challenge.

As they work on the Ranchero, the team at CRB Autobody also reflects on the significance of preserving old vehicles. They recognize that cars like the Ranchero are more than just a mode of transportation – they represent an era, a time in history that is worth remembering and appreciating. The crew discusses how their work is not just about fixing up a car, but about preserving a piece of cultural heritage.

The episode culminates in a successful restoration of the Ranchero that fulfills Wayne's desire to retain its patina while also making it safe to drive and preserving its historical significance. The team at CRB Autobody is proud of their work and the meaningful impact it has had on both the customer and the larger community.

"Lust for Rust" is a testament to the skill and dedication of the CRB Autobody crew and their commitment to preserving historical vehicles. It is a poignant reminder that sometimes the true beauty of a car lies not in its shiny newness, but in the rich history and character that has built up over decades of use.