Wrenches, Cartels, and 200mph Thrills: A Gearhead's Adventure


Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works takes us behind the scenes of high-performance vehicle builds and international racing adventures that push the boundaries of what's possible. From a meticulously restored Panos destined for a private museum to unconventional engine swaps that challenge conventional wisdom, Richard's projects showcase the ingenuity that defines passionate automotive specialists.
The heart of our conversation reveals the calculated risks automotive enthusiasts take when pursuing their passion. Despite Mexico being under a Level 4 travel warning with cartels recently classified as terrorist groups, Richard explains why his team still plans to participate in their upcoming Mexican road racing event. "Where we're going, it's not usually a case," he notes, distinguishing between their federale-protected route and the more isolated desert racing that occurs elsewhere. This fascinating risk assessment offers listeners an authentic glimpse into how automotive enthusiasts balance passion with practicality.
We explore why certain racing events simply can't happen on American soil, with Richard lamenting that "US laws don't allow us to play like that," revealing how regulatory and insurance hurdles force enthusiasts to look beyond borders for certain experiences. This juxtaposition of American caution versus international opportunity presents a thought-provoking dimension to automotive culture rarely discussed in mainstream conversations.
The episode rounds out with a journey through automotive history, including the birth of the Chevrolet Caprice, the legendary Shelby GT350H "Rent-a-Racer" program, and how unexpected events like the Three Mile Island nuclear accident shaped automotive design trends by influencing fuel economy regulations.
Whether you're a dedicated gearhead or simply curious about the lengths people will go for their automotive passions, this episode offers invaluable insights into the calculated risks, creative solutions,
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00:00 - Show Introduction and Announcements
03:05 - Audience Updates and Racing Achievements
07:21 - Interview with Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works
15:13 - Mexico Racing Plans Amid Safety Concerns
21:13 - Racing Calendar and Automotive History
26:05 - Automotive News Headlines and Warnings
28:19 - Show Wrap-up and Sponsor Messages