If you’ve been following our blog series, you already know that Acclaim Car and Truck Repair isn’t just about turning wrenches—it’s about passion, precision, and preserving automotive history. But behind every great shop are the hands that built it, the minds that keep it running, and the voices that share stories only years in the business can provide. Today, we’re bringing you a little wisdom and heart straight from the legends themselves—Ken and Rich, the men who laid the foundation for what we do every day.
Ken: A Legacy in Every Transmission
When Ken started out, transmissions weren’t just a job—they were a calling. Every gear, every bearing, every intricate part told a story of craftsmanship. Over the years, he’s seen them all—the good, the bad, and the “how in the world did this still drive?”
“I’ve always believed that working on a car isn’t just about fixing what’s broken,” Ken says. “It’s about understanding why it broke, what caused it, and making sure it doesn’t happen again. That’s what separates a mechanic from a true technician.”
Ken’s dedication to the art of transmission work isn’t just about technical know-how; it’s about respecting the machine and the driver. He’s the guy who can take a transmission that others might write off as junk and breathe life back into it.
“There’s a certain pride in knowing a car that came through my hands is still out there running strong. It’s like leaving a little piece of yourself in the road.”
Rich: The General Repair Guru and Mentor
Rich is the kind of guy who doesn’t just fix cars, he teaches them a lesson. Whether it’s a stubborn engine that won’t turn over or a suspension that’s seen better days, he’s the problem solver, the detective, and the guy who gets it right.
“The best mechanics aren’t the ones who know it all,” Rich says. “They’re the ones who keep learning, adapting, and figuring out new ways to do things better.”
His philosophy has helped shape Acclaim into more than just a repair shop—it’s a place where knowledge is passed down, where younger techs learn not just the how but the why. And it’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about building confidence in the people who drive them.
“I love seeing a customer’s reaction when they pick up their car and realize it drives like it did when they first got it—or better. That’s what keeps me going.”
Why Their Experience Matters
When Ken and Rich purchased American Transmissions all those years ago and transformed it into Acclaim, they were at the time just buying their jobs. But over the years, it turned into something much bigger—it became about creating a legacy. Their decades of experience aren’t just tucked away in their minds, they’re embedded in every car that leaves our shop.
From the way Ken meticulously rebuilds transmissions to the way Rich trains and guides the next generation of techs, their legacy is alive in every project we take on.
So, the next time you roll into our shop, know that you’re not just getting a repair—you’re getting decades of experience, a commitment to quality, and a little bit of the heart and soul of two men who’ve dedicated their lives to the craft.
Got a classic car that needs some love? Or just want to talk shop with two of the best? Swing by Acclaim Car and Truck Repair. Ken and Rich are always happy to share a story, offer some advice, and, of course, make sure your ride is ready for the road ahead.