1930 Ford Model T Build: Three-Generation Family Project with 350 HP Chevy V8

Al Chavez

1930 Ford Model T

Instagram: @al.chavez.14

Builder: Altek Shop, Lincoln, California

Photographer: Toria Mohr Photography

Instagram: @toria_mohr_photography

Performance Stats: 350 HP High-Compression Chevy 350 (1969 L46)

"Blue on Black stands as a rolling testament to what happens when three generations of craftsmanship, technology, and family pride collide in the shop." – Al Chavez

Three Generations, One Uncompromising 1930 Ford Model T Build

Every great hot rod tells a story. But few carry the generational weight of Blue on Black.

Built right out of the Altek shop in Lincoln, California, this custom 1930 Ford Model T build is a masterclass in blending traditional hot rod styling with modern engineering technology. What started as a vision for a world-class build evolved into something bigger—a definitive three-generation family project that proves the best fuel for any build is family legacy.

The Vision: Radical Yet Refined

The 1930 Ford Model T build project began under the direction of Al Chavez who envisioned a radical but refined take on the classic Model T.

Unlike a standard open-top build this rod features a sleek, fully enclosed roofline giving it an aggressive, sinister silhouette. It's a departure from traditional Model T aesthetics—a reimagining that respects the original while pushing the design forward.

To handle the power and stance the team skipped catalog parts and built a completely custom-fabricated chassis from the ground up. Dropping the body low over a custom frame gave the 1930 Ford Model T build the perfect menacing hot rod rake while maintaining structurally rigid geometry (https://www.ford.com/heritage).

Every decision served the vision. Nothing was compromised. Nothing was shortcut.

Three Generations in the Shop: Skills Across Eras

Bringing the 1930 Ford Model T build to life required diverse skills. Al didn't have to look far to find them.

The build became a true multi-generational collaboration:

Daniel Chavez - Fabrication & Structure
Al's son took charge of the heavy metalwork. Armed with a TIG torch and a keen eye for structural integrity Daniel executed the flawless chassis welding and custom bracketry required to mate vintage steel with a high-performance drivetrain. That's not just skill—that's pride in craftsmanship.

Adam Chavez - Modern Technology
Al's younger son brought modern manufacturing to the table. Utilising advanced mechatronics and 3D printing, Adam designed and produced custom component mockups and specialised utility brackets that seamlessly integrate with the traditional hot rod layout. He proved that new technology and classic design don't have to conflict.

Sergio Gonzalez - The Foundation
Al's father-in-law provided foundational wisdom and support throughout the gruelling build process. He completed the three-generation build team, representing the heritage and values that guide everything.

Engineering Power: 350 HP Chevy V8

Under the dual-quad cowl sits a classic American powerhouse: a meticulously detailed Chevy 350 V8 engine.

A high-compression 1969 L46 block built to deliver around 350 horsepower. Built for both show and go the engine bay is a clean, uncluttered landscape of polished aluminium, stainless lines, and custom brackets.

The 350 delivers a brutal old-school rumble through a custom exhaust system, ensuring that the 1930 Ford Model T's build performance matches its aggressive aesthetic. When you drive past, it's not just visual—it's visceral.

Every component was selected and finished to show-car standards. No shortcuts. No catalog solutions. Everything is custom and purposeful.

Blue on Black: The Aesthetic Revolution

The car's name speaks directly to its striking visual presence.

The exterior is draped in a deeply reflective multi-stage metallic paint that shifts drastically depending on the light. In shadow it appears as a deep midnight black. When the California sun hits the custom metallic flake it explodes into a vibrant deep blue.

The transformation is dramatic. The same car looks completely different depending on where you view it. That's the power of proper paint work.

Open the doors and the theme carries into the flawless, custom-tailored interior. The cabin features premium black leather wrapping custom-moulded bomber-style seats and door panels. The striking contrast comes from precision blue cross-stitching that ties the interior directly to the metallic highlights of the sheet metal.

Inside and out the 1930 Ford Model T build is a color symphony. Blue on Black isn't just a name—it's a design philosophy.

Complete Build Specifications

1930 Ford Model T Build - Powertrain

• Chevy 350 V8 engine
• High-compression 1969 L46 block
• Around 350 HP output
• Custom exhaust system
• Classic American muscle sound

Chassis & Structure

• Completely custom-fabricated chassis
• Built from ground up (not catalog parts)
• Custom frame design
• Structural welding by Daniel Chavez
• Custom bracketry for modern drivetrain integration
• Rigid geometry for performance and handling

Exterior Styling

• Fully enclosed roofline (custom design)
• Multi-stage metallic paint (Blue on Black)
• Paint shifts from black to deep blue depending on light
• Custom metallic flake finish
• Aggressive hot rod rake and proportions

Interior

• Premium black leather throughout
• Custom-molded bomber-style seats
• Custom door panels
• Blue cross-stitching detail work
• Traditional hot rod layout with modern comfort

Modern Integration

• 3D-printed custom components
• Advanced mechatronics by Adam Chavez
• Specialized utility brackets
• Seamless blend of old and new technology

From SEMA Dreams to Local Legend

Originally conceptualised as a contender for the prestigious SEMA Battle of the Builders in Las Vegas, the timeline shifted. But the quality never wavered.

Today Blue on Black is an active icon on the Northern California car show circuit. Whether pulling up to local showgrounds or out on an evening photo shoot with Al's wife Kristina, the 1930 Ford Model T build commands attention wherever it goes.

It's not just a show car. It's a conversation starter. It's a representation of what's possible when three generations commit to excellence.

The Altek Shop Legacy

The 1930 Ford Model T build was executed at the Altek shop in Lincoln, California—a space that represents tradition, craftsmanship, and family values.

This isn't a massive corporate shop with hundreds of employees. This is a family operation where three generations came together with specific skills and created something that'll be remembered for decades.

That matters. The shop's DNA is in every weld, every line, every detail of the 1930 Ford Model T build.

Final Thoughts: Legacy on Wheels

Blue on Black is more than just steel, leather, and horsepower.

It's a rolling testament to what happens when three generations of craftsmanship, technology, and family pride collide in the shop. It's proof that you don't need corporate sponsorship or social media clout to build something legendary.

You just need vision. Skill. And people you trust beside you in the garage.

Al Chavez built a hot rod. But more importantly, he built a family legacy that'll outlast the paint job and the horsepower numbers.

That's the real power of the 1930 Ford Model T build. 

Final Note

The 1930 Ford Model T build represents the golden era of hot rod culture, where family, craftsmanship, and passion matter more than trends or Instagram followers. It's a reminder of why we love cars in the first place—the connections we make, the skills we learn, and the legacies we build together.