Workshop
UNDER THE HOOD WITH AUTOTECH AARON
AutoTech Aaron is a Youtuber, Tiktoker, and new brand ambassador for SWAE. But most importantly, a man who lives to mod cars. Taking an old Chevy LUV and giving it some much-needed TLC, this newly minted pickup has an LS swap and is ready to tear down the town. Over the last few months, he has been around the SWAE shop, filming videos and modifying his "Nasty LUV" pickup. We decided to sit down and see what gets this man's boots on in the morning. For videos and more direct access to Aaron's content, follow the link at the bottom of the story.
Adapt and Overcome
What inspired you to start pursuing the dreams you are following now?
Other automotive influencers. Seeing the insane cars/trucks they build and the amazing human connections they create, inspired me to pursue a similar path. My ultimate goal is to leave a self-woven legacy in the automotive industry.
How do you come up with ideas to work on the project you take on?
The ideas generally stem from watching other content creators on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, etc. I see something I like, for example, NASCAR trucks, and put my twist on it. That's precisely how the NASTY LUV project was born. I have always wanted to own a real NASCAR for some odd reason, and I couldn't exactly afford a REAL NASCAR, but I could afford to build a replica.
What is the most challenging part of what you do? What causes you the most frustration?
Trying to make parts work together that were never designed to be together. Even though the LS swap on my Chevy LUV was reasonably straightforward, it had its fair share of challenges and problems to overcome. Sometimes those problems can be as simple as trying to think of a new way to route a hose or as frustrating as pulling the transmission for the 3rd time to fix a leaky clutch slave cylinder
Where can we find you in your off time? What are some activities you do to unwind?
In my garage, it's almost like a meditation room for me. Once the work in the garage begins, the stress from day-to-day life fades off. Using my hands to build stuff helps keep me busy and, most importantly, sane.
Where do you see the industry headed in the next five years? What about fifty years?
In the next five years, I see some rough roads ahead. With so much pushback against ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) engines, there will be many trials and tribulations. However, we will soon come to a satisfactory conclusion on the future of ICE engines and the automotive industry in general. As far as the next 50 years? I have no insight, but whatever happens, the automotive community will undoubtedly adapt and overcome any obstacles.
What is your favorite project or build around the SWAE shop?
If I had to choose one, it would be the Subaru WRX STI rally car. It may not be the most expensive or flashiest, but it has all the cool factor of being a real rally car. I've always loved rally, primarily for cars, and was excited to get an in-depth look at the vehicle.
What dream project would you pursue if you had all available resources?
A diesel-swapped Lamborghini Huracan, purely for hilarity - the project would only be complete with a 5th wheel hitch and a flatbed trailer.
Check out AutoTech Aarons's content here.
Featured Fits:
Aaron is seen doing some work on the Chevy LUV in the SWAE Logo Hoodie.
