With so many builders in the hot rod world focusing on making rat rods and other rusty-patina-weathered creations, it is refreshing to see a true hot rod. This 1950 Chevrolet coupe belongs to Jerry Logan and was designed and built by Donn Lowe.
This is a hot rod that uses parts from a variety of other cars to enhance its visual appeal. Rather than all-out speed, this car is built for aesthetics with a ton of custom body work and fabrication that really showcases the skill of the builder.
This car features the windshield and rear bumper from a 1950 Oldsmobile, front fender openings from a 1952 Ford, and taillights from a 1951 Fraser mounted upside-down. It has shaved door handles with remote openers and a one-piece hood that’s been nosed and decked. The headlights have been frenched and the side moldings and rocker panels are all hand-made. The front grille of a 1953 Chevrolet has been molded into the body with 1950 Oldsmobile wings added. On top of all that, the roof has been chopped 1.5″ in the front and 2″ in the rear. And that’s just the body work!
Looking at the car’s ride height, you might expect it to have air ride or perhaps hydraulics. It’s actually a lot less complicated than that – there are drop spindles and a C-notch in the rear. It rides on a stock frame and A-arms with modified springs. There’s no raising this car up to go over speed bumps – driving this thing is a commitment to being aware of road conditions!
The engine is a Chevrolet 283 with Tri Power and a Chevy 350 automatic transmission. Everyhing has been fully chromed and detailed for show. It has finned valve covers, carb, and intake covers. An aluminum radiator from Be Cool keeps the temperatures down while cruising low and slow.
The interior is also tastefully done and retains the stock steering wheel, gauges, and radio. No billet or modern LED’s to be seen here! It does have a couple of upgrades including Vintage Air and a Flaming River tilt steering column.
So where does the name Vanilla Shake come from? It’s actually the name of the paint color from PPG. I think it’s very appropriate as this car is one sweet ride!
