#337 Rolling Through Time: Inside the Martin Auto Museum with Rick DeBruhl
About this episode
Rick DeBruhl joins Wrench Nation to discuss the Martin Auto Museum, sharing insights into its extensive collection of over 170 cars, ranging from historical models to modern classics. He highlights the museum's unique approach to education and community engagement, including hands-on experiences for visitors. DeBruhl also reflects on the importance of preserving automotive history and the challenges faced by car museums today. The episode features stories about Mel Martin's passion for cars and the museum's role in fostering the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.
This week on Wrench Nation, we welcome motorsports broadcaster and automotive storyteller Rick DeBruhl, representing the incredible Martin Auto Museum. From rare classics to iconic race machines, the Martin Auto Museum isn’t just about chrome and horsepower—it’s about preserving history, inspiring the next generation, and celebrating the stories behind the sheet metal. Rick takes us behind the scenes with museum favorites, upcoming events, and why this destination is a true gem for car culture !
Honda Civic
"...t think you're evil Knievel in your little Honda Civic Mainly passenger car, but I've seen trucks you w..."
The Civic is a small, practical car that many people use for daily driving. It’s known for being cheap to run and easy to fix.
The Honda Civic is a compact sedan that has become an icon of reliability and fuel efficiency since its debut in the early 1970s. Its low cost of ownership, strong resale value, and widespread parts availability make it a staple in both everyday driving and enthusiast circles.
air induction system
"You don't think so and if your air induction system that air box"
The air induction system is the part of a car that lets fresh air into the engine so it can run. It has things like an intake tube and a filter.
The air induction system is the part of a vehicle that brings outside air into the engine for combustion. It includes components like the intake manifold, throttle body, and air filter.
battery
"I think I just need a battery. I won't start yeah, and then we find usually I get"
A car battery is like a big rechargeable pack that gives power to start the engine and run lights. If it dies, the car won't start.
A vehicle battery stores electrical energy to start the engine and power accessories. It needs to be charged or replaced when it no longer holds enough charge.
hydro lock
"It's a bad hair day for that engine because you can hydro lock an engine. So do yourself a favor"
Hydro lock happens when water or another liquid gets into the engine's cylinders and stops the pistons from moving. It can break parts inside the engine.
Hydro lock, or hydraulic lock, occurs when liquid enters the engine cylinders and prevents pistons from moving. This can cause severe damage to internal components.
recall
"I want to share with you a recall. I think these two recalls may affect some of you"
A recall means the car company is telling owners to bring their cars back so they can fix something that might be unsafe or not working right.
A recall is an official action taken by a manufacturer to fix a defect or safety issue in vehicles that have already been sold.
instrument panel display
"Trucks over software issue causing instrument panel display. Look the gist of this is"
It’s the screen in your car that shows you how fast you’re going, where you are on a map, and other useful info while driving.
The instrument panel display is the screen inside a vehicle that shows speed, fuel level, navigation, and other information to the driver.
instrument cluster
"That the panel the instrument cluster. This is gonna sit there and flicker upon startup"
It’s the screen on the dash that tells you things like how fast you’re going and how much gas you have left.
The instrument cluster is the dashboard display that shows speed, fuel level, engine temperature, and other vehicle data to the driver.
over-the-air update
"But the nice thing is it's an over-the-air update. Now, that's cool."
It’s like getting an app update on your phone, but for the car’s computer. You can get new functions or bug fixes without going to a service center.
A software update delivered wirelessly to a vehicle’s computer systems, allowing new features or fixes without a dealership visit.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...also have another GM recall 23,000 or so of these Corvette the zero six and zero one Potential fire risk. O..."
The Corvette is a fast, American sports car that people love for its speed and looks.
The Chevrolet Corvette is America’s flagship sports car, celebrated for its powerful V8 engines and distinctive styling. It has a passionate fan base and is often used as a benchmark for American performance engineering.
fuel filler pocket
"gasoline from spilling into the fuel filler pocket"
It’s the spot in a car where you put the fuel cap; it helps keep spilled gas from spreading.
The fuel filler pocket is the cavity in a vehicle’s trunk or rear area where the fuel cap and filler tube are located, designed to contain any leaked gasoline.
floor jack
"Brought a floor jack"
A floor jack is a machine that lifts a car off the ground so you can work underneath it.
A floor jack is a hydraulic lifting device used to raise a vehicle for maintenance or tire changes.
valve stems
"I brought valve stems"
Valve stems are small metal parts inside a tire that let you add or remove air.
Valve stems are the metal rods inside a tire that allow air to enter or exit through the valve cap.
lug wrench
"and a lug wrench"
A lug wrench is a tool that helps you tighten or loosen the bolts that hold a wheel on a car.
A lug wrench is a tool used to tighten or loosen lug nuts on wheels.
Porsche 911
"You know the Porsches are not very big on interior. There was nine kids on the inside of that car Oh, wait a little to door 9-11 a little to door and there was nine kids and they're just loving it touching and jumping and playing and you know Maneuvering parts and steering wheel and it was just a great day"
The 911 is a famous German sports car that’s known for being fast and handling well.
The Porsche 911 is a legendary rear‑engine sports car that has been in production since 1964. Its precise handling, iconic silhouette, and engineering excellence make it a benchmark for performance cars worldwide.
Hyundai
"Selling used cars now, but for some reason it was only Hyundai so in LA"
Hyundai makes cars that are usually cheap, dependable, and good for everyday driving.
Hyundai is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing affordable, reliable vehicles such as the Elantra and Sonata.
used cars
"Selling used cars now, but for some reason it was only Hyundai so in LA"
A used car is one that someone else has driven before. It’s usually cheaper than a brand‑new car, but you should check its condition carefully.
Used cars are vehicles that have been previously owned and sold by a private party or dealership. They typically cost less than new cars but may have higher mileage and wear.
Pronto National Association
"Support for wrench nation comes from pronto national association a network of auto parts suppliers and professionals"
Pronto is an organization that helps people who sell or work with car parts by giving them training and information.
Pronto National Association is a network of auto parts suppliers and professionals that offers resources, training, and industry insights to support collaboration and innovation in the automotive sector.
Parts Authority
"wrench nation support comes from parts authority providing automotive parts and supplies for both professional mechanics and automotive enthusiasts"
Parts Authority is a store that sells car parts, tools, and accessories for people who fix cars or enjoy working on them.
Parts Authority is a retailer that provides automotive parts and supplies for both professional mechanics and hobbyists. They offer a wide selection of components, tools, and accessories.
AC Delco
"With nationwide locations professional counter assistants and a wide range of manufacturers including ac delco"
AC Delco makes replacement parts for cars, like batteries and brakes. They sell parts that fit many different car models.
AC Delco is a well-known manufacturer of automotive parts, including batteries, brake pads, and engine components. It supplies both professional mechanics and car enthusiasts with OEM-quality parts for a wide range of vehicles.
Formula One
"[1178.5s] You've been around for quite some time covering Indy 500 formula one bear jacks and it goes on and on"
Formula One is the top level of car racing in the world. Teams build very fast cars and race on tracks around different countries.
Formula One (F1) is the highest class of single-seat, open-wheel racing sanctioned by the FIA. It features cutting-edge technology and attracts global audiences.
Indy 500
"[1178.5s] You've been around for quite some time covering Indy 500 formula one bear jacks and it goes on and on"
The Indy 500 is a famous car race that happens every year in Indianapolis. Drivers race around a track for 500 miles, and it’s very popular in the U.S.
The Indy 500 is a legendary 500-mile open-wheel race held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It’s one of the most prestigious events in American motorsports, attracting top drivers and teams from around the world.
Martin Auto Museum
"So the Martin Auto Museum you talked a little bit about it, but it's a great facility"
The Martin Auto Museum is a place where people can see many different cars, from very old ones to newer models. It’s like a big car gallery.
The Martin Auto Museum is a private collection located in Phoenix, Arizona, featuring over 170 vehicles ranging from early automobiles to modern cars. It serves as a historical archive and display space for automotive enthusiasts.
Ford Thunderbird
"...ut it's a great facility It's a 43rd Avenue with Thunderbird on the northwest side of Phoenix We'll talk more..."
The Thunderbird is a fancy, two‑seat car made by Ford that’s meant for comfortable driving.
The Ford Thunderbird is a luxury coupe that has evolved from a 1950s personal luxury car to a modern two‑seat roadster. Its recent redesign focuses on comfort, technology, and a distinctive aerodynamic profile.
Meyers Manx
"I was driving down the street and I saw a classic meyers manc style dune buggy pull in front of me"
The Meyers Manx is a small, open‑sided car that was built for off‑road fun. It’s famous for being fast and lightweight.
The Meyers Manx is a classic American dune buggy known for its lightweight fiberglass body and high-performance off‑road capability.
dune buggy
"I was driving down the street and I saw a classic meyers manc style dune buggy pull in front of me"
A dune buggy is a small, open car that’s great for driving on sand or rough ground. It usually has big wheels and a simple body.
A dune buggy is a lightweight, open‑sided vehicle designed for off‑road use, especially on sand dunes. It typically has a simple chassis and large tires.
Mercedes-Benz SL
"...you know I mean who wouldn't want a Mercedes 300 sl it now that felt probably a little further out of..."
The SL is a fancy German car that’s open on the top and very comfortable to drive.
The Mercedes‑Benz SL is a luxury roadster that blends high performance with premium comfort. Known for its elegant design and advanced technology, it remains a top choice for those seeking an upscale convertible experience.
cutaway
"[1554.4s] Oh, yeah corvette which really you get to see all of the system sort of yeah [1560.9s] It's called a cutaway and what it what it is the whole car is basically expanded up and risen off the frame"
A cutaway car is one where the outside shell is taken off so you can see all the parts inside, like a car that’s been opened up for a look at how it works.
A cutaway is a display vehicle where the body and interior are removed or opened to show the mechanical components underneath. It’s often used for educational purposes, museums, or automotive shows.
exhaust system
"...It's part of the exhaust system. It's yellow. It's part of the electrical system or whatever"
The exhaust system is the part of a car that carries away the hot gases from the engine. It helps keep the car quiet and clean.
The exhaust system directs engine gases away from the vehicle and reduces noise, emissions, and heat.
internal combustion powered motor car
"Ben's which is the first production motor car ever made first internal combustion powered motor car ever made"
An internal combustion engine is the kind of engine that runs on gasoline or diesel. It burns fuel inside the car to make it move, which is how most cars work today.
An internal combustion engine (ICE) is a type of heat engine where the combustion of fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber. In cars, this process powers the vehicle by converting fuel into mechanical motion.
Duesenberg
"We have three and a half million dollar Duesenberg, you know"
Duesenberg made very fancy and fast cars a long time ago. They were famous for being the best in speed and style.
Duesenberg was an American luxury car manufacturer active in the 1920s and 1930s, known for high‑performance grand touring cars like the Model J.
Tesla Roadster
"...e any evs that we could perhaps like a uh a tesla roadster or anything? If that's a question I can even ask..."
The Roadster is a fast electric car made by Tesla that can go from 0 to 60 mph in just a few seconds.
The Tesla Roadster is an all‑electric sports car that promises blistering acceleration and cutting‑edge technology. It represents Tesla’s ambition to combine high performance with sustainable power.
Cadillac
"[2390.1s] Arrowhead Cadillac, you know what a Berkshire Hathaway company and I I find that the"
Cadillac makes fancy cars that are often expensive and have lots of features, like a big car with shiny lights and comfy seats.
Cadillac is a luxury automobile brand owned by General Motors, known for producing high‑end vehicles with advanced technology and premium interiors.
Audi 100S
"...s and we you know, we have a few you know fortune 100s that listen as well You decided to segue from tr..."
The Audi 100 is a mid‑size German car that was popular in the past for its comfortable ride and good handling.
The Audi 100 was a mid‑size executive car produced from the early 1970s to the late 1990s, known for its solid build quality and advanced all‑wheel‑drive technology. It remains popular among collectors for its understated luxury.
Ford Mustang
"... It alienated quite a few traditionalists of the mustang brand Yeah, but I tell you what?"
The Mustang is a classic American car that’s known for its speed and bold look.
The Ford Mustang is an American muscle car that has been a cultural icon since 1964. Its aggressive styling, powerful engines, and strong aftermarket support keep it popular among enthusiasts.
Ford At Mustang
"... order is I mean you have to look at I mean look at mustang sales, right? I mean because camaro's gone the c..."
The Mustang GT is a faster version of the regular Mustang, with a bigger engine that makes it even quicker.
The Ford Mustang GT is the high‑performance version of the Mustang, featuring a 5.0‑liter V8 and aggressive styling cues. It delivers more horsepower and torque than the base model, appealing to performance purists.
Dodge Challengers
"I mean you have to look at I mean look at mustang sales, right? I mean because camaro's gone the challenger's gone mustang sales I'm really like 130,000 a year or something like that now"
The Challenger is a big, powerful American car that’s similar to the Mustang but with its own look.
The Dodge Challenger is a modern take on classic muscle cars, offering large V8 engines and retro styling. It competes directly with the Mustang and Camaro in both performance and market share.
Chevrolet Camaros
"I mean you have to look at I mean look at mustang sales, right? I mean because camaro's gone the challenger's gone mustang sales I'm really like 130,000 a year or something like that now"
Sears Automotive
"I had two hours of auto shop in high school. I worked my way through college working at Sears Automotive"
Sears Automotive was a part of the big Sears department store chain that sold cars and car parts. It closed many years ago, but it was a well-known name for buying vehicles.
Sears Automotive was a division of the Sears retail chain that sold cars, parts, and provided automotive services. It operated dealerships across the United States before closing in 2011.
Smart
"Over the long haul first they got into the smart which have catalogs then they got into the big box store"
Smart is a brand that makes very small cars, usually only one or two seats. They’re designed for city driving and are easy to park.
Smart is a brand of small, city-oriented cars originally produced by Mercedes-Benz and later by Daimler AG. Known for their compact size and fuel efficiency, Smart cars are popular in urban areas.
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