Engine builder

[JED]

Has anyone used Keith Tardel at REX Rod & Chassis to build a 348/409? His shop is currently just outside of Austin, TX, although I understand he used to be in Calif. I saw that he had built a 409 for a build on the TV show "Iron Resurrection" and was curious if anyone knew about him.
John

 

[W Head]

If you are near Austin, talk to Dennis at Precision Engine Service. Has been doing my 348-409 and Small Block engines for over 30 years 512 4511663 or 512 4511663. Randy in Round Rock also has been using Dennis for many years.

W Head

59 Impala 409-2,4s

 

[JED]

W Head: Does he do assembly also or just machining?

John

 

[W Head]

Does it all if you want.

W Head

59 Impala 409-2,4s

 

[fourzeronine]

Rex Rods outsources its machine work, but Keith should be more than capable of assembling a 409. He has plenty of experience assembling other vintage engines; mainly Ford Flatheads, but a few others here and there, too.

 

[buildit]

I think he is related to Vern Tardel.

 

[fourzeronine]

Keith is Vern's son.

 

[BOSSMAN]

Dan Soliz of Hill Country Performance & Machine did that 409. I was originally asked to do a set of Eddy heads for that build until they changed the scope of the effort. Dan does great work.