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Crucible Coachworks and Translog Porsche service in York, Pa
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Pro Files – Crucible Coachworks and Translog

York, Pennsylvania, may not seem like a mecca for Porsche enthusiasts, but it’s where Translog and Crucible Coachworks find them. The joint shop are renowned for its dedication to Porsche maintenance, restoration, and customization. These two complementary businesses have grown under Tony Miller, who has been exclusively working with Porsches for nearly three decades. By combining Translog’s long-standing reputation with Crucible Coachworks’ evolving social media presence, the shop is a unique hub for Porsche enthusiasts and custom car lovers alike.

Translog and Crucible Coachworks

Translog was established in 1972, becoming a respected Porsche-exclusive shop known for high-quality service, repairs, and fabrication. Tony Miller took over the business in 2006 after the passing of its original founder, Gary Wigglesworth. Tony had worked alongside Gary for ten years, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and cultivating a passion for all things Porsche. This dedication to the brand has positioned Translog as the go-to destination for Porsche enthusiasts seeking expert care.

 

 

In 2016, Ryan Krause joined the team, bringing with him extensive experience in bodywork and collision repair. Ryan’s craftsmanship and Tony’s mechanical expertise created a powerful combination. Moreover, Ryan introduced content creation skills that launched Translog’s social media presence, leading to the creation of Crucible Coachworks. Starting as a YouTube channel, Crucible Coachworks showcased their restorations, custom builds, and metal shaping, rapidly attracting a dedicated audience.

Crucible Coachworks and Translog Porsche service in York, Pa
Ryan (left) and Tony (right)

Tony Miller and Ryan Krause

Tony Miller’s journey into automotive mechanics began after an incident with his first car, which sparked a lifelong passion for understanding how vehicles work. At 19, Tony bought his first Porsche, leading to his introduction to Gary Wigglesworth and Translog. Tony got a formal education in automotive technology at Harrisburg Area Community College. After nearly 28 years of exclusive Porsche experience, he’s a seasoned expert in the field.

Ryan Krause began his career detailing cars at a dealership, later transitioning to collision repair. He apprenticed under his brother, Brad Krause, a respected collision technician, before joining Translog. Tony encouraged Ryan to expand his skills in metal shaping, sending him to workshops led by renowned experts like Lazze, Chris Rünge, and Jake Krotje. With this hands-on training, Ryan has honed his craft, focusing on custom bodywork and high-end restorations.

Translog and Crucible Coachworks specialize exclusively in Porsche, providing a full spectrum of services for all eras and models. Offerings range from routine maintenance and engine rebuilding to full-body restorations and custom fabrication. Working out of a well-equipped 11,000-square-foot facility, the team includes six full-time staff. The shop can handle projects of varying complexity, from simple oil changes to intricate metalwork.

Crucible Coachworks and Translog Porsche service in York, Pa
Porsches of all generations find their way into Translog

The shops’ passion for custom builds is evident upon visiting the facilities. It’s best epitomized by “Project Jigsaw,” a 1960s-inspired supercar built around a V8 Mustang engine from Tony’s father’s last car. Based on a Porsche Boxster chassis, Tony and Ryan invested countless hours into transforming it into a truly unique vehicle. Blending sentimental value with high-performance craftsmanship, the project in unlike anything else. When completed, Project Jigsaw will not be a mere showpiece but will be driven and enjoyed.

Eyes on the Future

Eastwood has provided support to Project Jigsaw, making sure the team has the tools it needs to get the job done. “The Eastwood TIG 200 LCD welder is an excellent piece of equipment that I use daily,” says Ryan. “The Versa Cut 4×4 CNC plasma cutter makes easy work out of difficult jobs, adds Tony. “I hate computers, but I can easily use it to cut whatever I need.”

Crucible Coachworks and Translog Porsche service in York, Pa
Ryan at work on Project Jigsaw

With an eye on growth, Crucible Coachworks aims to expand its YouTube channel, allowing for larger and more ambitious projects. The team continues to draw inspiration from iconic fabricators like Lazze and Chris Rünge. The work really shows, too. In fact, Eastwood recently formalized an exclusive partnership with Crucible to offer welding and fabrication training through its retail stores.

Translog and Crucible Coachworks are poised to continue their legacy of excellence, driven by a deep-seated passion for Porsche and the art of automotive restoration.

 

 

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