TikTok Mechanic Metal Man Online Talks Challenges and Triumphs in the Shop, Part 1
About this episode
Spencer Ellis, known as Metal Man Online on TikTok, shares his journey from a self-taught mechanic to working at a well-known auto shop. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a boss who doubted his abilities and the steep learning curve of engine swaps. Spencer recounts his experiences at Carmax, his mission work in New Mexico, and the unique opportunities that led him to Dave's Auto Center. His story highlights the importance of perseverance and mentorship in the automotive industry, setting the stage for future discussions on his current role.
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Jeff Compton is joined by Metal Man Online (Spencer Ellis) from TikTok, who shares his journey as a mechanic. Metal Man discusses the challenges of inconsistent pay and the pressures of engine rebuilds in a high-demand environment. Jeff expresses concern over content creators relying on platforms like TikTok for income and highlights the expenses often overlooked.
00:00 Exciting Jada Mechanic podcast introduces Metal Man.
06:11 Hourly setup with the tiered system, and mechanical associates.
08:09 First job: school intern, then mechanic's apprentice.
12:20 "Challenging mechanic jobs can also be beneficial."
15:19 My Cousin worked at Carmax and influenced my hiring.
17:08 Ensured vehicle passed inspection despite motor mount issue.
20:15 Regretted car repair mishap led to injury.
23:27 Neglected maintenance leads to unforeseen mechanical issues.
27:35 I replaced the gas pedal, passed the emissions, and impressed the boss.
31:13 Maintain distance, yet understand their passion.
34:54 Two videos led to a job in industrial equipment.
36:40 Learning and gaining experience in the diesel industry.
42:28 Hired at the new shop with commission pay.
43:29 Initial pay delays; compensation based on completed jobs.
48:18 Engine production slow, delayed payment concerns.
51:13 Rusty bolt needs approval, didn't understand the system.
54:14 Regretting decision, uncertain future, seeing some hope.
57:10 Aspiring to live off video content creation.
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Master Tech
"... five that are required in order to be considered master tech. Right? I was two away from that. But Carmax then..."
Honda Civic
"...you got to do that as quick as you can do a Honda Civic. Um, I know it can. It can be just as daunting as..."
Dodge Neon
"...literally did a dual engine swap on a. On a dodge neon. He had a good engine in a bad car and a bad engi..."
Tesla Semi
"...e underneath the hood, that I would get passed by semi trucks going up a 6% grade. It was that gutless. ..."
Dodge Dakota
"...that, like, you know, a 3.9 in a four wheel drive Dakota was a turd, right? Like, they weren't that quick ..."
Ford F150
"So I take that as you will. So listen, the signs behind me, right, are speaking of what my lineage is like, that's, you know, people used to say all the same things. Same things. Used to hear that all the time, right? Well, Dodge transmissions won't hold up. If you looked at how a lot of people back then in the two thousands were buying a work truck, they went and bought a dodge and they worked it, you know, like a lot of trucks, a lot of agricultural haul trucks, that kind of stuff. So I mean, yeah, they got used. Somebody that's got a cream puff, you know, f 150 that didn't do anything with it. Yeah, all our transmission went to 100,000. That, you know, truck over there being used, it only made it to 60,000. Yeah, one used and the other ones, like a, use like a minivan, like they're not the same."
Renault Wind
"..., but, yeah. So my boss had already, like, gotten wind of this after I said, hey, I want to order a tran..."
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