How he got into the trade
Ed started working on cars at 16. Every summer he would take his own car apart to figure out how it worked, then put it back together. If he couldn't get it back together, he wasn't driving it anywhere. That was the deal he made with himself, and it's how he learned.
The job he gets called for most
Most calls start with a diagnostic. From there it leads into whatever category of job the diagnostic points to. Ed says the price depends on a lot of factors, but his rate is $180 an hour.
What people get wrong about cost
Ed says customers are often surprised by what a full engine rebuild costs. The parts themselves are actually cheap. What takes up the money is the labor, the time and the sweat that goes into doing the rebuild right.
A rebuild he's proud of
A 2002 Dodge Ram stands out. Ed did a complete engine rebuild and a full exhaust on that truck. Paint, internals, frame, all of it was redone by his own hands.
Dealership work, no dealership needed
Ed says he can do anything a dealership offers when it comes to turning wrenches. He calls it dealership quality at roadside. The difference is he doesn't need a lift. He gets right into the mud to get his customers back on the road.
What gets skipped and how a call works
Ed says the maintenance people skip most is 4x4 services and oil changes.
When someone calls, Ed talks through the issue with them and gives advice. If they want him to move forward, he tracks down the parts himself. If the repair is customer approved up front, he sends a quote right away. Once it's signed, it goes on the schedule and it's a one stop shop, the customer doesn't have to worry about anything from parts to finish.
His favorite car he's worked on so far is a 1965 Chevy SS.
Interviewed by MechanicRank · October 10, 2026. Nothing here is sponsored and nothing was rewritten into marketing copy. Read the other features or tell us about your own shop.