ETS Drift Ute:
Over the years of competing in S series cars I have found what works and what does not, this led to me to think of this project, in 2005 I had visions of a drift Hilux, the bodyline and shape lent itself well to this type of styling and ever since I have thought about the project, years went by and I gained ideas about what parts to use. After 5 years of having this project in the back of my mind the time had come to act on it.
The start: At the start of 2011 I picked up an 02 Single Cab Hilux body from Sydney and quickly went to work, removing all the sheetmetal I didn’t need. I was left with an outline and my project officially came to life.
I made a floor from RHS and MIG welded the lot together, it was at this point I decided to do things a little better than planned.
This was a pivotal point in my career, I taught myself to TIG weld for the good of this project, I spent hours practicing this skill and now I would never look back, TIG welding has reshaped my outlook on metal work and the possibilities that you have with this type of weld.
All the MIG floor was quickly sent to the bin and I started work on the new floor. I built my own tube bender and notcher and have spent the last year and a half creating the chassis you see before you.
This project is the ultimate test on myself, the patience, motivation and skills needed to complete something like this shouldn’t be overlooked, there has been trying times but I couldn’t be happier with the way its turning out.
To keep up to date please follow this link and watch it come together before your eyes.