Rutterz Rodz Builds Doyle Thomas a Refined ’41 Willys Street Rod
Like many Willys coupes, someone started to build this ’41 into a smooth pro street-style street rod with all the ’90s hallmarks – hidden hinges, suicide doors, and shaved trim. Doyle and Karen Thomas wanted a more contemporary and refined ’41 Willys street rod, so they took the unfinished steel coupe to Mike Rutter and his team at Rutterz Rodz for a fresh start.
The Rutterz team started with a Street Rod Garage chassis incorporating a coil-over independent front suspension, a four-bar rear with more coil-overs suspending the 9-inch rearend, and Wilwood disc brakes behind 18- and 20-inch ET III wheels. Reliable power came in the form of a Mast Motorsports LS3 with Holley dual quad-style fuel injection, finned valve covers, a Vintage Air Front Runner system, and a 4L80E transmission.
Mike Rutter says a lot of time was spent sourcing original hinges, moldings, and other trim. The body was also treated to a side-hinged hood, custom running boards and rear pan, and a custom grille insert from Jim Rench before the subtle Axalta Desert Beige paint was applied. Inside, Paul Atkins worked his magic on the distressed brown leather upholstery and the custom dash was fitted with Classic Instruments and a Billet Specialties wheel atop a Flaming River column.
The finished coupe still has a tough, hot rod attitude, but with much more refinement and comfort, plus a tasteful, enduring style that will look great for years.
Photos by John Jackson & Damon Lee
