SUB ZERO

The genesis of this build traces back to 2018 when Eric (Rick) Wiler embarked on a mission to pay homage to his father, Chuck Haselwood, through a meticulously curated 1966 GMC Suburban. Chuck’s legacy in the automotive industry, particularly his establishment of a GMC dealership in Bremerton, Washington, in 1966, served as the catalyst for this poignant endeavor.

The initial iteration of the Suburban unfolded as an 18-month ground-up restoration project, culminating in its debut alongside Covercraft Car Covers at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, courtesy of Finish Line Speed Shop. However, in 2023, after cultivating a longstanding partnership with Hedman Hedders through various SEMA builds and projects, the decision was made to usher in a new chapter for the Suburban. This transformation, involving a series of updates and upgrades, was executed within a tight 30-day timeframe, with Finish Line Speed Shop working tirelessly to unveil the revamped Suburban at the Hedman Hedders Booth during the 2023 SEMA Show. Following its SEMA showcase, the Suburban graced the FiTech booth at the 2023 Dino’s Git Down Show in Arizona.

The cyclical nature of the build is underscored by the relocation of Finish Line Speed Shop from Bremerton, Washington, to Ellensburg, Washington, between 2018 and 2023. This move, while initially met with skepticism, held profound personal significance for Lyon and Jen, the proprietors of Finish Line. Ellensburg, a quaint farming community situated at the heart of Washington State, happens to be the birthplace and upbringing locale of Mr. Chuck Haselwood himself.

The seamless integration of personal history and professional passion underscores the profound resonance of the Suburban’s journey. From its inception in 2018 to its current resurgence under the discerning gaze of Emma Sauve and subsequent feature in this magazine, the narrative unfolds as a testament to serendipitous alignment, or what some may call “kismet,” for all involved parties.

In retrospect, the relocation to Ellensburg stands as a testament to Finish Line’s unwavering commitment to their craft, both on a personal and professional level. The Suburban’s trajectory, from its humble beginnings to its elevated status as a focal point of admiration in the HotRod community, serves as a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and the profound connection between automotive craftsmanship and personal legacy.