The “Ratrod”

In the car world, a “Ratrod” isn’t about the shiny paint or the expensive chrome. It’s about taking something forgotten, stripped down, and worn out, and making it run better than the day it left the factory.

After retiring, I finally had the time to get back in touch with my first love: Music!

So I started learning how to play guitar and bass again, and along the way, I discovered a fascination with how these instruments actually work. I started tinkering, then repairing, and then I realized something important…

There are far too many silent guitars collecting dust in thrift store corners, garages and basements… And too many kids who want to explore music but don’t have an instrument to play.

So, that’s what I do here. I source used guitars from thrift stores and garage sales – often neglected or “unplayable” – some barely played at all! Bring them back to the rat’s nest for a full overhaul.

● The rat don’t just “fix” them: They get “Rat-tification”

● The Goal: A guitar that feels so good in a kid’s hands that they never want to put it down.

Our Mission: Buy-Fix-Give: Ratrod Guitars isn’t a retail shop. It’s a bridge to the love of music.

1. The Hunt: Find the diamonds in the rough.

2. The Bench: Spend the time to make them sound great and easy to play.

3. The Gift: Once a guitar is “Ratrod Ready,” it is donated—free of charge.

4. Guitars for Sale: Every now and again I have to sell one to keep the lights on.