Street Cred

JP Jonker has always had an avid interest in cars but it was when he turned 16 that his interest in Hot Rods started. Some new neighbours had moved in next door and they were car people.

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JP explains “My new neighbour turned out to be Hannes Meyer (he is well know for his love of Hot Rod and Classic cars in PE). I had always admired his beautiful cars and dreamed of owning one myself one day.

I visited him quite frequently (another thing Hannes had was a beautiful daughter) and so my passion for these cars grew. Today, I have a beautiful Hot Rod which is mine and I am also married to his daughter!”

One day, Hannes brought home a 1948 Plymouth. The car was originally found in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. It was then brought to Uitenhage for the previous owner, Oom Louis Gericked who made a couple of adjustments, for example gauges, new carb, new paint job etc. The car was then sold to Hannes.

“In my opinion, a 1948 Plymouth Coupe has one of the most beautiful rear ends around. I love the “Coupe Look” even though there is more than enough space inside for 4 people to sit comfortably.

The Car was already what we call a “Hot Rod” (Had a V8 Engine, Upgraded suspensions, guages and bright colour, but still had all of its original chrome trims, mouldings, taillights and handles). The original plan was to just take out the engine, strip the interior, re do the dash, repaint the car and put everything back together. The project stalled for a while due to other projects, but it recommenced June 2018 with a whole lot of new Ideas and the body was sent to Danie Van Der Merwe

The body was in fair condition, most of the original chrome strips and moldings still in place, but some were damaged and scratched. The body definitely needed attention. The floor of the car had quite a bit of rust. 50% of the floor was rebuilt using new sheet metal. Minor rust spots on the body were removed and taken care of.