Stacey David Net Worth, Career, And Gearz Success

Stacey David built a lasting career as a master fabricator, television host, and custom car builder. Best known for creating iconic vehicles and inspiring builders across the country, he turned a hands-on passion for wrenching into a multi-decade media presence. His estimated net worth sits around $3 million, accumulated through his television shows, custom shop ventures, and automotive projects.

Behind the wrench and the cameras lies a dedicated family life and a practical approach to building custom machines. Understanding his journey requires looking past the rumors and examining how a kid from Idaho built a workshop empire.

Early Life and the Drive to Build

Born in Boise, Idaho, David developed an obsession with internal combustion engines at an early age. He spent more time modifying vehicles and hanging around local racetracks than focusing on traditional academics. After attending Boise State University briefly, he made the pivotal choice to leave formal schooling behind.

He packed up and moved to California to immerse himself directly in the hot-rod culture. Rather than learning from textbooks, he sought out legendary custom car builders like George Barris, John Buttera, and Darryl Starbird. Studying under these pioneers gave him a masterclass in metal shaping, custom fabrication, and design aesthetics that later defined his builds.

The Road to Television and GearZ

Before landing in front of a camera, David moved to Nashville in 1984 with aspirations in the music scene. He funded his time by showing up to gigs in his own custom hot rod creations, merging his love for guitars and horsepower. By 1993, he opened The Rattletrap, a custom car shop where he could focus entirely on high-end vehicle fabrication.

His big break in broadcasting came in the late 1990s. He joined the cast of the hit automotive show Trucks! on Spike TV, eventually taking over as the primary host. Under his leadership, the show reached massive ratings milestones.

• Left Trucks! after a successful eight-year run.
• Launched his independent series, GearZ, focusing on hands-on how-to builds.
• Produced iconic custom vehicles like Copperhead, The V8 Interceptor, and Sgt. Rock.

Through GearZ, which airs on networks like Motor Trend, David avoids simplified television magic and shows viewers real fabrication steps. Every build reflects his personal philosophy: encourage people to step into the garage and build something themselves.

Marriage and Family Life

Public figures in the automotive space often keep their personal lives quiet, but David shares a steady partnership with his wife, Kathryn David. Kathryn serves as a vital part of his professional ecosystem, acting as an officer and financial manager for Rattletrap Productions and David Entertainment.

Working together, the couple manages television production, studio operations, and brand merchandise. They maintain a grounded lifestyle centered around their faith, outdoor activities like hiking, and involvement in the local Nashville community. They share children and balance a heavy production schedule with a quiet home life away from Hollywood tabloid culture.

Net Worth and Business Ventures

Stacey David's net worth is estimated at $3 million. This valuation stems from several distinct revenue streams built over decades in the automotive industry:

• Television Production: Long-running contracts with major automotive networks and production syndication through Rattletrap Productions.
• Shop Customization: High-end vehicle builds, custom fabrication consultations, and specialized automotive parts design.
• Merchandising and Brand Partnerships: Endorsements, branded tools, and gear sold through his official website.

Despite commercial success, he avoids flashiness, choosing to plow profits back into his workshop and video production capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stacey David's primary catchphrase?

He is widely known for opening his shows and interactions with the question, "What are you working on?"

Where is Rattletrap Productions located?

The studio and custom shop are based in the Nashville, Tennessee area, where David settled after moving there to pursue music and automotive building.

What happened to his famous Copperhead truck?

Copperhead remains one of his most recognized builds—a custom 1937 Ford pickup powered by a modified V8 engine that toured nationally and set a high bar for modern street truck design.

Is Stacey David still producing new episodes of GearZ?

Yes, production continues through Rattletrap Productions, supplying new instructional builds, historical vehicle spotlights, and project updates for automotive enthusiasts. You can follow current updates directly on the Official Stacey David Website.