Jerry Motes was born and raised a California surfer, so it seems only appropriate that he has grown to have a passion for Woodie vehicles.  In 1959 or 1960, while in high school, Jerry bought his first car, a 1948 Woodie.  His passion for old cars, in general, grew, and he has since driven a variety of collector vehicles, including several Model As, five Porsches (including the first 912 Porsche imported to the United States) and a 1964 Valiant convertible.

Currently, he owns and drives a 1968 VW Transporter, purchased in 1997, and a 1946 Ford Woodie that he bought in 1990.  The ’46 Woodie is unique in that it’s powered by a Chevy 350 and, according to Jerry, “it’s the only Ford Woodie with a sunroof.” 

The Ford, which Jerry and friend Ron Erskine are still restoring, also has a special place in this surfer’s heart.  Jerry says that his father, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, was the inspiration for purchasing the car.  After the car was up and running, Jerry began picking up his father in the Woodie, and something about the car sparked memories in his dad, enticing him to have fun, tell jokes and reminisce on old surfing stories, despite his illness.

As mentioned before, this car is still a work in progress.  Since Jerry and Ron were in a hurry to get the car running for Jerry’s father (it only took three weeks to get it into driving condition!), not all of the best equipment was originally placed in the car. 

Now, this team of two plans on adding “modern drive train stuff” and plans to drop the vehicle three inches to “give it a better profile.”  The VW is also in store for some restoration, says Jerry.

He also adds that he also has a new project lined up: a 1929 Woodie.  Jerry plans on building this car for his son who works as a DMV employee for American soldiers...in Japan!  Jerry plans on shipping the car to Asia.

So, when does the new project begin?

 “When my wife lets me!” answers Jerry, as he chuckles.  She has requested that Jerry wait until he finishes his two current projects, which he estimates will be two years down the road.

In the meantime, Jerry currently stays active in the hobby on the road, attending car shows with friend Ron, who happens to be a Premier California State Agent for Grundy Worldwide.

Be sure to say ‘hi’ to Jerry and Ron while checking out the new West Coast Grundy Trailer at shows that Jerry and Ron attend, including: Goodguys’ Summer Get Together, The Pomona Swap Meet, The 21st Goodguys Havoline West Coast Nationals, Goodguys’ Autumn Get Together and the Goodguys Southwest Nationals.

Story by: Becky McLaughlin