Jay Rod's Machine & Fabrication LLC

05/26/2026

Once upon a time, a fella got to machine some 20" blades for an old luv with jeep axles.

05/26/2026

And then there was the 1835cc that could...

05/26/2026

This was a quick little job, had to clean, clean, then clean it some more... Tried using fast fab pushrod tubes, they leaked so bad, swapped em out for some JayCee leak proof ones, they lasted through the weekend, so hopefully they continue to do what they are as advertised to do. Also added an electric fuel pump to feed this monster, fixed a few other oil leaks. I did not mess with the jetting, which I could probably step up some jets, we will see.

05/26/2026

Project "too long" is out of the garage. Sorry I didn't cover it too much as far as pictures or videos. I couldn't have asked for a better customer, he was very understanding that when he dropped the buggy off that my wife was about to have our son, and that my life was about to change...

That being said, he says he is happy with the way it turned out, but...

I think we need more power, this Honda 3.2 just seems lazy. So if anyone knows of a Honda builder or tuner please reach out, not sure if cam, heads, or different tune might be in order?

Also the gearbox is loud. Instead of the standard gear oil we use, the fluid in it is pink... I've only seen this fluid in one other transmission, and it didn't last...

Anyway, I will try to post more stuff, answer questions, and keep everyone updated on what I'm doing or working on.

03/03/2026

It's been awhile... But I am back, all hands on "project too long" here is a little before and after. Re-surfaced flywheel tonight, paired with a new KEP stage 3 pressure plate, and CB Performance dual friction clutch disc.

03/16/2025

When I was a young lad back in the 90's I would watch Herman Barnum race his buggies in Otter Lake, his green and yellow buggy with police lights on top, with a bulldog hood ornament always stood out. Fast forward to 2006 and I bought that buggy, and still run it. Through the years and many parts later, he shared lots of wisdom and laughs with me. Then he started sending me some of his customers to get work done on their buggies. Within the past 3 years he would always call me asking what parts I needed when it was time to restock his shelves. He believed in me and supported the work I did. I always let him know how much I appreciated him, I hope he knew how much it meant to me. We were never competitors, just good buddies that could help each other out. He will be missed greatly here and the VW community. My heart goes out to Stephanie and Terry, the rest of his family, and to all of us that lost a legend yesterday. R.I.P. Herman

View Herman L. Barnum's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/03/2025

It's been awhile since I've gotten out in the shop, happy holidays everyone!!! Just finished up this 1915cc that's heading to Alaska. Huge thanks to

09/28/2024

People showing up for the Saint Helen Buggy & Off Road poker run!!!

08/26/2024

Had a great weekend. Thanks to Dan Willhite Herman Barnum CB Performance Stefan Campbell Pierce Manifolds for having all the parts needed to get my buggy up and running for the Michigan Sport Buggy Association old school round up. I really do appreciate what you guys do for the old school buggy community. Thanks to Gary Penn for hosting the after party. Good seeing new and familiar faces, lots of good stories and knowledge passed around Saturday. Sorry I don't have many pictures, I was too busy talking... Go figure!!! Can't wait till next year.

07/19/2024

Project "too long" is finally making forward progress. Tree bars welded on, seats lowered and kicked back, computer box relocated, Jamar pro X shifter installed, pedals moved forward. Next on the list is a custom aluminum dash and pulling the V-Tech motor out to install a new pressure plate and clutch disc. Waiting on some AN fittings to make custom length brake and clutch lines, then wire everything back up