1954 FJ Holden Ute: From Farm Ute to Pro Street Cruiser

After spending an incredible 55 years sitting on a farm, this 1954 FJ Holden ute has been transformed into a stunning Pro Street-style cruiser.

Ray started with what was left of the original farm ute and completely rebuilt it, creating a custom FJ that combines classic Holden styling with modern engineering and comfort.

From Farm Ute to Custom FJ Holden

Underneath the classic body is a custom chassis with independent front suspension and four-wheel coilovers.

At the rear, the FJ runs a Ford nine-inch differential and enormous 29 × 15-inch tyres measuring around 430mm wide. They give the ute its tough Pro Street stance and make it look like it should have some serious horsepower under the bonnet.

Ray originally planned to fit a Chevrolet V8, but Western Australian licensing requirements changed those plans.

Instead, the FJ is powered by a reliable 3.8-litre Holden Ecotec V6, backed by a Turbo 400 automatic transmission.

The result is a custom classic that’s comfortable, reliable and built to actually be driven.

Modern Comfort With Classic Style

This FJ might look old-school, but there’s plenty of modern equipment underneath.

It features air conditioning, power steering, power windows and a hidden stereo, making it a comfortable cruiser.

Inside, you’ll find a custom dashboard and Mazda BT-50 seating, while the exterior is finished in stunning Mazda Soul Red Crystal paint.

The rear tray is another highlight, featuring beautifully finished timber and a polished fuel tank.

Ray’s Blown 383 Hot Rod

The FJ isn’t Ray’s only impressive build.

We also check out his wild hot rod powered by a 383 Chev V8 with an 8/71 Littlefield supercharger and Powerglide transmission.

Unlike the cruiser-friendly FJ, this one has enough power to lift the front wheels at the drag strip!

Watch the Full FJ Holden Feature

In this Aussie Garage episode, we take a closer look at Ray’s incredible 1954 FJ Holden ute, hear the story behind its transformation and take it out for a cruise.

We also check out his blown 383-powered hot rod and discover just how different these two custom builds really are.

Featured in This Episode

• Custom 1954 FJ Holden ute
• 55 years sitting on a farm
• Massive 430mm-wide rear tyres
• Custom chassis and independent suspension
• 3.8-litre Holden Ecotec V6
• Turbo 400 automatic
• Ford nine-inch differential
• Mazda Soul Red Crystal paint
• Custom interior and timber tray
• Blown 383 Chev hot rod
• Road test and cruising footage

Would you keep the reliable Ecotec V6, or would you want a V8 under the bonnet?

Let us know in the comments and follow Aussie Garage for more classic Australian cars, custom builds, hot rods and owner stories.

#FJHolden #HoldenUte #AussieGarage #ProStreet #streetmachine

The post Wild 1954 FJ Holden Ute | Full Custom Build appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

If you love traditional hot rods, this 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod is one you won’t want to miss.

Featured on Aussie Garage at Cleveland Spares, Sam’s Model A combines timeless styling with classic hot rod performance. Finished in black with subtle red pinstriping, a striking custom red interior and powered by the legendary Flathead V8, it perfectly captures the spirit of traditional hot rodding.

Built to Drive

Unlike many show cars, this Model A is regularly driven to hot rod events across Australia. Sam shares the story behind the build, its imported steel body and why getting out on the road is what owning a classic hot rod is all about.

In This Video

• 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod walkaround
• Flathead V8 engine
• Imported steel body
• Custom red interior
• Traditional pinstriping
• Sam’s ownership story
• Road trip and event highlights

Watch the Full Feature

Whether you’re into Ford Model A Hot Rods, Flathead V8s, vintage Fords or classic American cars, this feature is packed with inspiration.

A huge thank you to Cleveland Spares and Sam for sharing this incredible traditional hot rod with Aussie Garage.

The post You’ll Love This 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod | Flathead V8 Powered! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Featured on Aussie Garage, this incredible custom build combines classic British styling with modern engineering and a serious performance punch thanks to a rare 2.9L 24-valve Cosworth V6 producing around 300 horsepower.

Located in Perth, Western Australia, the vehicle is available for $20,000.

For enquiries, contact Ross directly on 0428 822 199.

A Classic Ford with a Serious Twist

The Ford Anglia originally left the factory with a tiny 10-horsepower side-valve four-cylinder engine. Fast forward to today and this unique panel van now packs a powerful Cosworth V6 that completely transforms the driving experience.

Ross has owned the vehicle for more than 30 years and has spent countless hours refining and modifying the build. What started life with Toyota Corolla running gear has evolved into a fully engineered custom street machine.

The only original component remaining is essentially the body itself, with almost every aspect of the drivetrain, suspension, steering and braking systems upgraded or custom fabricated.

Rare Cosworth Power

Under the bonnet sits a rare 2.9-litre quad-cam 24-valve Cosworth V6. These engines were never a common sight in Australian custom cars and are particularly unusual to find in a compact vehicle like an Anglia.

With approximately 300 horsepower pushing an 800kg vehicle, performance is more than enough to surprise modern cars.

Highlights include:

• 2.9L Cosworth Quad Cam V6
• Approximately 300HP
• Aftermarket ECU
• Custom radiator setup
• Custom exhaust system
• Ford Type 9 five-speed manual gearbox
• Engine sourced through Race Tune
• Professionally engineered conversion

Ross jokes that the lightweight Anglia can easily break traction and becomes a handful in wet conditions.

Professionally Built Suspension and Chassis

This isn’t simply an engine swap. The vehicle features significant engineering upgrades throughout.

Features include:

• Independent front suspension
• Rack and pinion steering
• Bilstein coilovers
• Narrowed Jaguar rear end
• Four-wheel coilover setup
• Custom front flip nose section
• Fully engineered modifications

Many of the fabrication and suspension upgrades were completed by well-known Western Australian hot rod specialists, helping create a unique and capable package.

Custom Interior

Inside you’ll find a blend of vintage styling and modern convenience.

Features include:

• Original-style Bakelite dashboard
• GPS speedometer
• Custom audio system
• Reverse camera system
• Rear vision camera
• Custom roof console
• SAS bucket seats
• Custom denim interior work underway
• Rat Fink themed touches throughout

The van was originally used by Ross during his years as a mobile DJ, explaining the impressive sound system and spacious rear cargo area.

Honest Description

The vehicle is currently unlicensed and has been in storage for some time.

Ross advises the next owner should budget for:

• Gasket work
• Clutch work
• General recommissioning

However, the car is largely complete and shouldn’t require a major amount of work to get back on the road and through licensing requirements.

For someone looking for a unique hot rod, custom cruiser or show vehicle, this Anglia offers a huge amount of engineering and fabrication work already completed.

A Car with a Story

Beyond the modifications, this Anglia carries an incredible story. Ross has battled cancer multiple times over the years but has remained passionate about cars and hot rodding throughout.

The vehicle reflects decades of ownership, craftsmanship and determination, making it much more than just another custom build.

Watch the full interview here:

Vehicle Summary

Vehicle: 1948 Ford Anglia Panel Van
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Price: $20,000
Engine: 2.9L Quad Cam 24-Valve Cosworth V6
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Power: Approx. 300HP
Status: Project requiring minor mechanical work and licensing

Contact Ross: 0428 822 199

Serious buyers only. Inspections are recommended.

For more unique Australian custom cars, hot rods, muscle cars and project vehicles, keep an eye on Aussie Garage.

The post FOR SALE: Wild 1948 Ford Anglia Panel Van with 300HP Cosworth V6 – Perth WA – $20,000 appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

What happens when you take a rough old 1963 Ford Econoline and turn it into a full-blown custom hot rod? The answer is simple — you end up with one of the most unique builds we’ve ever featured on Aussie Garage.

In this episode, we dive into a seriously cool transformation — a once tired workhorse van that’s now been completely re-engineered from the ground up. While the outside still tells the story of its past with raw, untouched patina, underneath it’s a totally different beast.

This isn’t your typical restoration… this is a full custom build that blends old-school character with modern performance and drivability.

From Workhorse to Custom Street Machine

The 1963 Ford Econoline started life as a basic 6-cylinder work van — nothing flashy, just a practical piece of machinery built to get the job done. Fast forward to today, and it’s been transformed into a head-turning custom hot rod that perfectly balances vintage style and modern engineering.

What makes this build stand out isn’t just what’s been added — it’s what’s been kept. The original patina exterior remains untouched, giving the van a raw, authentic look that tells its story without needing fresh paint or flashy finishes.

It’s the perfect example of the “built, not bought” philosophy.

Under the Skin – A Completely Reimagined Setup

While the outside might look old-school, underneath this Econoline is where things get serious.

At the heart of the build sits a Ford 302 Windsor V8 — a proven powerhouse that delivers reliable performance with that unmistakable V8 sound. Paired with a C4 automatic transmission, this combo transforms the van into something that’s actually enjoyable to drive, not just admire.

But it doesn’t stop there.

The entire suspension and chassis setup has been upgraded to modern standards, turning what was once a rough old van into something that handles like a completely different vehicle.

Key Modifications That Make This Build Stand Out

This Econoline isn’t just about dropping in a V8 — it’s a full rethink of how the van performs, drives, and feels on the road.

Here’s what’s been done:

• 302 Windsor V8 conversion (EB Falcon 5.0L)
• C4 automatic transmission
• Independent front suspension with Scotts IFS conversion
• 4-link rear suspension with coilovers
• Ford BA Falcon LSD differential with rear disc brakes
• Full 4-wheel disc brake upgrade
• Right-hand drive conversion (perfect for Australian roads)
• Dakota Digital dash for a modern interior feel
• Custom floor and full chassis upgrades

Every part of this build has been carefully thought out — not just for performance, but for real-world drivability.

Modern Driving Feel in a Vintage Package

One of the biggest achievements of this build is how it drives. Thanks to the independent front suspension, coilover rear setup, and upgraded braking system, this Econoline behaves more like a modern car than a 60s van.

It’s smooth, stable, and capable — everything you wouldn’t expect from something that still looks like a vintage survivor on the outside.

The right-hand drive conversion also makes it far more practical for Aussie roads, proving that this build wasn’t just about looks — it was built to be driven and enjoyed.

Patina Perfection – Why Less is More

In a world full of high-gloss restorations, this Econoline goes the opposite direction — and that’s exactly why it stands out.

The untouched patina exterior gives the van character you simply can’t replicate. Every mark, every fade, every imperfection tells a story of its past life.

Instead of hiding that history, this build celebrates it — combining that raw look with modern engineering underneath.

It’s the ultimate sleeper-style build

A True Custom, Not Just a Restoration

There’s a big difference between restoring a car and completely reimagining it — and this Econoline sits firmly in the latter category.

This isn’t about bringing something back to factory condition. It’s about taking an old platform and building something entirely new while respecting its heritage.

From the chassis upgrades to the drivetrain swap and suspension overhaul, this van has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind machine that delivers both style and performance.

Watch the Full Feature on Aussie Garage

If you’re into custom builds, classic vans, or unique Aussie-engineered projects, this is one you don’t want to miss.

We take a full walkaround, dive into the details, and chat about what it took to turn this rough old Econoline into the beast it is today.

Make sure you check out the full episode on Aussie Garage and see this incredible build in action.

Final Thoughts

The 1963 Ford Econoline custom hot rod is proof that you don’t need perfect paint or a factory restoration to build something special.

Sometimes, the best builds are the ones that embrace their past while completely redefining their future.

#FordEconoline #302Windsor #AussieGarage #ClassicCars #HotRod #CustomBuild #V8Swap #CarBuilds #AustralianCars #StreetMachine

The post 1963 Ford Econoline V8 Build! 😳 302 Windsor Swap, Full Custom Chassis & Hot Rod Van appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.