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From Nursing Books to Garage Tools: A Mechanic’s Triumph in No-Nonsense Retrofit
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD RIEGER II
RICHARD Rieger II’s perseverance and commitment shine through as he reveals the story of how a simple idea evolved into the revolutionary Electric 360.
DURING my time at The Vault, a classic car dealership situated in Jackson, Mississippi, I embarked on my journey with a 1969 Subaru 360. This peculiar car stands out among the array of rare and expensive classics and exotics that graced the shop. As I juggled being a full-time nursing student, my boss, JD Pass, accommodated my schedule, allowing me to work around classes and clinical commitments. This unique flexibility enabled me to nurture my passion for classic cars and mechanics while pursuing my education.
My association with The Vault extended throughout my time in nursing school and continues sporadically to this day, with occasional visits to lend a hand in the shop. Amidst a treasure trove of automotive wonders, the little 1969 Subaru 360 caught my attention. It arrived at the shop with a dormant engine and ineffective brakes. This modest and unassuming car would soon become one of my favorites.
Upon completing nursing school and finding myself with disposable income, an opportunity presented itself on the Facebook Marketplace—a project car, a 1969 Subaru 360, in need of revival. After parting with $1,200 and undertaking a four-hour road trip, the little car became part of my life. At the outset, my intention was to restore the original motor or locate a suitable replacement engine. Yet, the scarcity of hard-to-find components for the original powertrain led me down a different path.