# @factoryfiveracing on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DG1BNxYS_y4
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/27140074-factoryfiveracing-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/52bed97668.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-03-05T18:53:26.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Factory Five Racing (@factoryfiveracing) — https://gondola.cc/factoryfiveracing

## Caption

The Factory Five team joins the automotive world in remembering Gene Winfield, a true pioneer who passed away at 97. After serving in the Navy at the end of World War II, Gene immersed himself in the growing car customization scene. By the late ‘40s, inspired by the then-new Hot Rod Magazine, he was customizing cars full-time and had built his first dry lake racer—a modified 1927 Ford Model T roadster. His innovative work would go on to shape hot rodding for generations.

Just weeks before his passing, Factory Five’s own Hot Rod frame welder and lifelong enthusiast, Justin P. had the chance to see Gene one last time at the 75th Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona, California.

In Justin’s words, “Gene Winfield has been an inspiration to me since I was a kid, reading magazine articles and watching him on Monster Garage. I’ll always cherish the moments I got to talk with him about customizing my own ’53. He once told me to weld the seam of my hood underneath first so it wouldn’t butterfly when I welded the outside—when the time comes, I’ll be sure to do just that.”

Reflecting on Gene’s lasting impact, Justin added: “It’s amazing to see the outpouring of love for Gene. The best part is that he got to see it while he was still with us. He lived 97 years doing what he loved, and I can only hope to do the same. I’ll always remember his words: ‘Every day is a school day,’ and no matter how long I’m in this hobby, ‘I’m just getting started.’”

Gene Winfield was more than a builder—he was a mentor, innovator, and icon. His legacy will inspire generations to come.

Thank you, Gene, for paving the way.

#GeneWinfield #GeneWinfieldRodAndCustom #KingOfTheFadeaway #HotRodPioneer #LegendsNeverDie

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 319
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## Tags

hotrodpioneer, genewinfield, genewinfieldrodandcustom, legendsneverdie, kingofthefadeaway

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