A Radio Flyer Fit For The Road

A retired Alaskan couple is causing a stir in the city of Wasillathanks to their unusual mode of transport - A real-life Radio Flyer vehicle, complete with an 8-foot tall black fiberglass handle that soars high above the front bumper.

However, this Radio Flyer does not need to be lugged around - That's because it has been crafted around a 1976 Mazda pick up truck that had been gathering dust inside Fred Keller's garage. While Mr. Keller made some modifications, he left the engine and some of the other parts like the instrument panel of the Honda, intact.

The 68-year old retired mechanic and his wife Judy Foster, who both grew up with the iconic toys, got the idea after they saw a hot rod version at a car show in Portland.

Mr. Keller built the outer structure with marine plywood, foam, fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin. In order to make it as authentic-looking as possible, the couple installed smaller wheels, painted the hubcaps white and used laundry detergent caps for hubs. In true Radio Flyer fashion, it also doesn't have doors, which means that the couple have to climb in and out with the help of a foot stool they keep in the back at all times. But most important of all, it is a convertible - After all, a Radio Flyer with a roof wouldn't really look as cool would it?

Sources: suntimes.com,popfi.com