TMCP #632: The Full Business of “Give Away Sweepstakes” with Hodson Motors — Riley Hodson on Building, Giving Away, and Growing the World of Classic 4×4’s Sweepstakes
About this episode
Riley Hodson from Hodson Motors dives into the world of vehicle sweepstakes, focusing on classic 4x4s. He shares his journey from hobbyist to a successful giveaway business, detailing the challenges and rewards of running sweepstakes. With insights on building and promoting vehicles, Hodson discusses the importance of transparency and trust in this niche market. He also touches on the risks involved, the balance between customer builds and giveaways, and the strategies that have led to his success. This candid conversation reveals the intricacies of a unique automotive business model.
Just outside the chaos of SEMA, we sat down at Hodson Motors—Riley Hodson’s backyard-born, fast-growing sweepstakes operation that’s taking over the classic 4x4 world. What started as a humble father-and-son hobby turned into a full business when Riley realized people weren’t just following his truck builds…they trusted him. From diesel-swapped Suburbans to bone-stock Toyotas, Riley breaks down the real math, the real risks, and the real heart behind giving away fully built vintage trucks to everyday enthusiasts. No hype, no gimmicks—just honesty, hustle, and a shop full of lifted classics ready for their next home.
Riley walks us through how he chooses the trucks, why some sweepstakes boom while others flop, and why every winner needs to know they’re not just getting a truck—they’re inheriting a hobby. It’s a rare, transparent look behind a world most people only see through ads and hashtags, and it proves why Hodson Motors has become the trusted name in classic 4x4 giveaways. And let’s be honest…nothing makes your muscle car look better than a perfectly built vintage truck parked next to it. After hearing this episode, you’re going to want to check out HodsonMotors.com and throw your name in the hat for the next one.
The post TMCP #632: The Full Business of “Give Away Sweepstakes” with Hodson Motors — Riley Hodson on Building, Giving Away, and Growing the World of Classic 4×4’s Sweepstakes first appeared on The Muscle Car Place.
Hodson Motors
"Our guest is Riley Hodson of Hodson Motors. You four by four enthusiasts know this guy and his company."
Hodson Motors is a business that focuses on modifying trucks and Jeeps, especially older models from the 70s to the 90s. They make these vehicles more off-road capable and unique.
Hodson Motors is a company specializing in modified four by four vehicles, particularly trucks and Jeeps from the 1970s to the 1990s. They cater to enthusiasts looking for custom and lifted vehicles.
four by four
"Their niche is four by four modded trucks and Jeep 70s through 90s, lifted trucks, stuff like that."
A 'four by four' is a type of vehicle that can drive all four of its wheels at the same time. This helps it handle rough terrain and off-road conditions better than regular cars.
The term 'four by four' refers to vehicles that have four wheels and are powered by all four wheels simultaneously. This configuration is ideal for off-road driving and provides better traction in challenging conditions.
lifted trucks
"Their niche is four by four modded trucks and Jeep 70s through 90s, lifted trucks, stuff like that."
A 'lifted truck' is a truck that has been made taller than normal. This helps it go over obstacles better when driving off-road and allows for bigger tires.
Lifted trucks are modified vehicles that have been raised higher off the ground than their factory height. This modification improves off-road capability and allows for larger tires, enhancing performance in rugged conditions.
Fanatec
"...the drift, those are all from Fanatec."
Fanatec makes gear for racing video games, like steering wheels and pedals that help make the experience feel more real. Many people who race online use their products because they are very good quality.
Fanatec is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality sim racing equipment, including steering wheels, pedals, and shifters. Their products are popular among both casual gamers and professional sim racers for their performance and realism.
TrackRacer
"I ended up buying a kit from TrackRacer, TRAK Racer. It's one of their 160 wall kits."
TrackRacer makes equipment for people who enjoy racing video games, helping them set up a more realistic experience with better seats and frames.
TrackRacer is a company that specializes in sim racing rigs and accessories, providing high-quality products for racing simulation enthusiasts.
fab up
"And I'm just going to fab up everything that isn't there that I want or need."
'Fab up' means to make or build parts that you need for a project, especially when they aren't available in stores. It's about creating custom solutions.
'Fab up' refers to the process of fabricating or building custom parts or components, often in the context of automotive or mechanical projects. It involves creating pieces that may not be readily available or modifying existing ones to fit specific needs.
Kierke seat
"I got his Kierke seat out of his old race car, the one he wrecked. I got a steering wheel out of his old race car, it's an MPI wheel, drilled it out..."
A Kierke seat is a special seat used in race cars to keep drivers safe and comfortable. It's built to be strong and light, which helps during fast driving.
A Kierke seat is a type of racing seat designed for safety and comfort during high-performance driving. These seats often feature a lightweight design and are made from materials that can withstand the rigors of motorsport.
MPI wheel
"I got a steering wheel out of his old race car, it's an MPI wheel, drilled it out to mount it on the Fanatec."
An MPI wheel is a type of steering wheel used in race cars. It's made to help drivers have a better grip and control while driving fast.
An MPI wheel refers to a steering wheel made by the company MPI, known for producing high-quality racing steering wheels. These wheels are designed for better grip and control in motorsport applications.
Cupra Born
"My name is Riley Hodson. I am a Las Vegas, Nevada born and raised native. I have been in the classic tru..."
The Cupra Born is a new electric car that is designed to be fast and fun to drive. It’s part of a brand that focuses on making sporty cars, but this one is also good for the environment because it runs on electricity.
The Cupra Born is an electric hatchback from the performance-oriented brand Cupra, a subsidiary of SEAT. It represents a shift towards sustainable driving while maintaining a focus on sporty performance, appealing to those interested in modern electric vehicles.
classic crew cab scene
"We were real big in the classic crew cab scene. So crew cab forwards and Chevy's and Dodges, but also big in the Jeep scene."
The classic crew cab scene is about people who love and restore older trucks that have extra space for passengers. These trucks are popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
The classic crew cab scene refers to the community and culture surrounding the restoration and appreciation of older crew cab trucks. These vehicles are known for their extended cab design, which allows for more passenger space.
Dodge trucks
"So crew cab forwards and Chevy's and Dodges, but also big in the Jeep scene."
Dodge trucks are tough vehicles made by the Dodge brand. They're great for work and are loved by many truck fans.
Dodge trucks are known for their ruggedness and performance, often favored for both work and recreational purposes. They have a strong following among truck enthusiasts.
Jeep J10S
"So like the full size Jeeps and the J10s and the Wagoneers, stuff like that."
The Jeep J10 is a pickup truck made by Jeep. It's known for being good off-road and has a special look that many people like.
The Jeep J10 is a pickup truck that was produced by Jeep, known for its off-road capabilities and unique styling. It has a loyal following among classic truck enthusiasts.
Jeep Wagoneers
"So like the full size Jeeps and the J10s and the Wagoneers, stuff like that."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a big SUV known for being good off-road and having lots of space inside. It's a favorite among people who like classic vehicles.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a full-size SUV that has a reputation for its off-road capability and spacious interior. It has a classic design and is sought after by collectors.
restomod
"...doing classic muscle cars like Resto mods are awesome company and"
A restomod is a classic car that has been updated with new parts to make it better to drive. It keeps the old look but has modern features like better engines and brakes.
A restomod is a vehicle that has been restored to a like-new condition but also modified with modern components for improved performance and comfort. This often includes upgrades to the engine, suspension, and interior while retaining the classic appearance.
AMC 360
"It had a rebuild AMC 360 four speed manual fuel injected."
The AMC 360 is a type of V8 engine that was used in some Jeep trucks. It's known for being powerful and reliable.
The AMC 360 is a V8 engine produced by American Motors Corporation, known for its robust performance and durability. It was commonly used in various Jeep models and other vehicles during the 1970s and 1980s.
Ford Bronco
"of my clients, I take care of his old Bronco. But Mike had gone to this"
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that people love for going off-road and exploring. It has a long history and is often talked about because many people have great memories associated with it.
The Ford Bronco is a classic American SUV that has gained a cult following since its introduction in the 1960s. Known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, the Bronco has become a symbol of adventure and freedom, making it a popular topic among automotive enthusiasts.
Chevrolet Suburban
"that I found you was through the suburban. How deep was that in your"
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's been around for a very long time and is popular for families or anyone who needs extra space.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that has been in production since 1935, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history. Its spacious interior and powerful performance make it a favorite for families and those needing a vehicle for heavy-duty tasks.
4L80E
"...had a 12 Elf Cummins and a four L 80"
The 4L80E is a type of automatic transmission that helps the vehicle change gears smoothly. It's designed to be very strong, so it can handle heavy loads and towing.
The 4L80E is a heavy-duty automatic transmission used in many Chevrolet and GMC trucks and SUVs. It is known for its strength and ability to handle high torque, making it suitable for towing and heavy loads.
NP 205 transfer case
"[1142.7s] transmission and an NP 205 transfer case. [1144.6s] No, a 261 transfer case, but..."
The NP 205 is a part that helps distribute power from the transmission to the front and rear axles in four-wheel drive vehicles. It has two settings for different driving conditions, like off-roading or regular driving.
The NP 205 is a two-speed transfer case commonly used in four-wheel drive vehicles, known for its durability and ability to handle high torque. It allows for both high and low gearing, making it suitable for off-road and heavy-duty applications.
261 transfer case
"[1146.0s] No, a 261 transfer case, but..."
The 261 transfer case is another part that helps send power to the wheels in four-wheel drive vehicles. It's newer and lighter than some older models, making it more efficient.
The 261 transfer case is a more modern variant used in some Chevrolet and GMC trucks, known for its lighter weight and improved efficiency compared to older models. It typically features a single-speed or two-speed design.
Ford Dana 60
"[1147.7s] it had a Ford Dana 60 Snowfighter front axle. [1149.7s] So the best front axle you could get."
The Ford Dana 60 is a strong part that connects the wheels to the vehicle, making it great for heavy-duty use and off-roading. It's often chosen for its ability to handle tough conditions.
The Ford Dana 60 is a heavy-duty axle known for its strength and durability, often used in trucks and off-road vehicles. It can handle high torque loads and is popular among enthusiasts for upgrades and modifications.
roof rack
"baseline overland roof rack and there's a couple at SEMA of these baseline overlaid roof racks for these suburbans."
A roof rack is a frame that sits on top of a car to hold extra things like bags or bikes. It helps you carry more stuff when you're traveling.
A roof rack is a set of bars secured to the roof of a vehicle, used to carry items like luggage, bikes, or kayaks. They are popular for overland and adventure vehicles to increase cargo capacity.
KC Lights
"That's a cool KC headlight roof rack and it was a really"
KC Lights makes special lights for cars that help you see better when driving off-road at night. They're often used by people who like to go on adventures in their vehicles.
KC Lights is a company known for producing high-quality off-road lighting solutions, including headlights and light bars. Their products are popular among off-road enthusiasts for enhancing visibility during nighttime driving.
K5
"...I just sold my K5. It was lifted on thirty sevens, you know, still all stock running gear and all..."
The K5 is a type of SUV made by Chevrolet that is great for off-roading. It was built for tough conditions and has a strong reputation for being durable.
The Chevrolet K5 is a full-size SUV that was produced from 1969 to 1991, known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities. It is often associated with the Blazer nameplate, particularly in its later years.
thirty sevens
"...It was lifted on thirty sevens, you know, still all stock running gear and all..."
'Thirty sevens' means the tires are 37 inches tall. Bigger tires help vehicles drive better on rough or uneven ground.
'Thirty sevens' refers to the size of the tires, specifically 37 inches in diameter. Larger tires like these are often used in off-road vehicles to improve traction and ground clearance.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"You know, so for $50, he won a 1984 Land Cruiser BJ 60."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a fancy SUV that can go anywhere, even on rough roads. People like it because it lasts a long time and is very comfortable to drive.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a luxury SUV known for its durability and off-road prowess. With a reputation for reliability and longevity, it is often sought after by those who need a vehicle that can handle tough terrains while providing comfort.
Dodge Ram
"but it is the most bone stock second gen Cummins...I could find four wheel drive second gen Cummins."
Cummins is a brand of diesel engine that is often used in Dodge Ram trucks. The second generation refers to the models made between 1994 and 2002, which are known for being strong and reliable.
The Cummins is a turbocharged diesel engine commonly found in Dodge Ram trucks, particularly in the second generation models produced from 1994 to 2002. These engines are known for their durability and performance, making them popular among truck enthusiasts.
Chevrolet C30
"Eileen was a 79 Chevy C30 Dually crew cab. It had a Duramax and an Allison in it."
The Chevrolet C30 is a strong pickup truck designed for heavy work. It has two wheels on each side at the back, which helps it carry heavier loads more safely.
The Chevrolet C30 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust construction and capability, particularly in towing and hauling. The 'Dually' designation refers to its dual rear wheels, which provide increased stability and load capacity.
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