Texas Metal

Bill Carlton and his team of custom car workers at Ekstensive Metal Works in Texas are showcased. They undertake a radical redesign in a bold effort of a 1950 Ford F5 cab‑over‑engine (COE) vehicle, reimagining the classic model from the ground up.

Cab Over Custom is a television programme that presents individual episodes centred on bespoke automotive projects. Each instalment showcases a particular build, giving viewers insight into the craftsmanship behind customised vehicles. The series often focuses on the engineering decisions behind each build, and this episode follows the transformation of a classic cab‑over truck, highlighting the hands‑on work that defines the series. The focus of this instalment is the work carried out by Bill Carlton and his crew at Ekstensive Metal Works, a custom‑car workshop based in Texas. Together they embark on a radical redesign of a 1950 Ford F5 COE, tackling the vehicle’s original cab‑over layout and reimagining its appearance and structure. Their approach pushes the limits of what can be done with a vintage cab‑over platform. Bill Carlton leads the team through each stage of the rebuild, applying the shop’s specialised skills to reshape the 1950 Ford. The workshop’s Texas location provides a backdrop for the practical challenges they face, from stripping the original components to fabricating new parts that suit the intended redesign. Throughout the rebuild, the team records each modification, highlighting the precision required. The episode documents the process from start to finish, capturing the detailed work involved in converting a mid‑century cab‑over truck into a customised piece. By following the team’s methodical approach, viewers get a clear picture of how Ekstensive Metal Works turns a classic Ford F5 COE into a uniquely altered vehicle. The final result blends classic design cues with contemporary customisation techniques.