James Chandler’s story is more than just a tale of cars and speed; it’s a chronicle of family legacy, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. From his early days inspired by his father’s racing stories to his hands-on adventures with his brother-in-law, Doug Hill, James’s love for cars has been a lifelong journey. His fourth-gen Trans Am he calls “the F-Bomb” is his personal masterpiece showcasing his abilities and passion for fast cars.
Getting Bitten By The Hot Rod Bug
Growing up, James was surrounded by the roar of engines and the smell of gasoline. His father, a car enthusiast, would often regale him with stories about his first-generation Camaro, a car he raced with pride. These stories were not just bedtime tales but seeds planted in young James’s heart, nurturing a fascination for speed and mechanics. The real turning point, however, came with his brother-in-law, Doug Hill. Doug, who tragically passed away in 2003, had a profound influence on James. “Doug is responsible for giving me the bug,” James recalls. “Seeing his passion for cars and feeling the thrill of my first ride in his ’69 Nova with an all-aluminum 427 engine — I was hooked.”
James’s love for cars isn’t just about driving; it is about building, modifying, and creating something unique. Over the years, he owned various models — a turbo Talon, various Mustangs, Camaros, Trans Ams, a Trailblazer SS, and an SS Silverado. Each car was a canvas, a project where he could add bolt-ons and make enhancements.
His first full build was a 1996 Trans Am, a project that ignited his passion for hands-on work. But it was during a period of downtime that James found his most ambitious project: his 2000 Pontiac Trans Am WS6. Purchased from Eric Perini in Marion, Ohio, this car was more than just a vehicle; it was a lifeline. “I needed something to occupy my time while I was down with some medical issues,” James explains. “This car definitely kept me busy and gave me the drive to keep pushing.”
The F-Bomb Trans Am is as much a showpiece as a race car. Everything is powder-coated, painted, and polished.
Building It His Way
This Trans Am has a storied past, being the former fastest LS-powered car on the planet on a 275-drag radial tire. The car features an all-star build history, having been built originally by Stenod Performance with later chassis updates made by NRC Motorsports and Advanced Chassis. James poured his heart and soul into the Trans Am, taking it…
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