Practical repairs and problem-solving

Skunkworks is about practical solutions to real-world problems. From vehicle repairs and rust work to light engineering, welding and fabrication, I take on jobs that interest me and challenges worth solving.

I've spent 45 years building and working on street cars, hobby race cars, motorcycles, trailers and hobby 4x4s. That experience has taught me how to approach a problem, work out what needs doing and find a practical way to get it working.

I'm not a qualified mechanic or engineer. I'm an experienced hands-on problem-solver who knows his capabilities and is honest about his limitations. I focus on making things work, not making them look pretty, and I won't hide problems.

Skunkworks is based in Wellington. The work I take on and the area I can cover depend on the job.

Light Engineering

Practical welding, fabrication and modification work for jobs that need a solution rather than an off-the-shelf part. Work I can consider includes brackets and mounts, modifying existing components, trailer repairs, panel repairs and other suitable fabrication jobs.

With 45 years of experience building cars, hobby race cars, motorcycles, trailers and 4x4s, I enjoy working through challenges and finding practical ways to make things work. Every job is different, so get in touch with some details and I'll let you know whether it's something I can help with.

Trailer repaired, including wiring, lights, drawbar and wheel bearings — Trailer repair: re-wired, lights replaced, drawbar repaired and wheel bearings replaced.

Vice grips modified into a sheet-metal crimping and flanging tool — A pair of vice grips modified to crimp and flange sheet metal — a practical tool made for the job.

Car Repairs

Keeping an older vehicle going can be expensive, but not every job needs a large workshop or the overheads associated with modern vehicle servicing. My experience is rooted in older cars, street cars, hobby race cars, motorcycles and 4x4s.

I focus on practical repairs and problem-solving. I don't offer every type of repair, and I won't take on work I don't believe I can do properly. Tell me what the problem is and I'll be straight with you about whether I can help.

Engine from an older car — From older vehicles such as this 1969 MG to 1990s Japanese cars, my experience is with practical, hands-on work. Some newer vehicles may also be suitable, depending on the job. I have fixed my own 2005 vehicle dashboard (electronics issue), head gasket, clutch and brakes.

Rust Repairs and Panel Work

Rust needs to be dealt with honestly, not simply hidden. I undertake suitable rust repairs and panel work, particularly on off-road vehicles and projects where practical repair work is the goal.

I do not undertake structural rust repairs on road-going vehicles where the work requires specialist repair certification. This can include structural parts of a unibody, chassis, steering and other safety-critical components. I'm not a repair certifier, and I won't represent my work as certified. Work requiring certification needs to go to an appropriately qualified repairer.

If you're working on an off-road 4x4, a project vehicle or need non-structural panel repairs, get in touch to discuss the job and whether it's something I can take on.

Rust repair to a Toyota Corolla side-window frame — Toyota Corolla side-window rust repair. The repair was treated with anti-rust paint, body filler and paint on both sides of the panel. The replacement sheet metal was hand-formed to match the existing profile.