ERIC J. LAESCH 

Eric is the brains of Chase Classic Motors. An ASE certified mechanic for over 20 years, Eric was formerly lead instructor at the Baker College Automotive Skills program in Clinton Township, Michigan (2009-2019). Eric is a lifelong fan of Chrysler automobiles and began his journey to becoming an expert in automobile mechanical and electrical systems by repairing his own Plymouth in the 1990s when some professional shops were unable to meet his high standards. After getting his hands dirty in the family garage, Eric graduated school and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Automotive Technology. He currently holds both a Michigan teaching certificate and a Motor Vehicle Mechanic Certificate (#M252117).

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Eric was responsible for helping to resurrect the most famous Hemi-powered muscle car in the world: the iconic Detroit street-racing legend “Black Ghost”; a 1970 Dodge Challenger RT/SE owned by Gregory Qualls. Eric was featured in the documentary about the Black Ghost produced by Hagerty and can be seen bringing the 426ci Hemi V8 back to life for the first time in 30 years. He has been Crew Chief of the Black Ghost since 2016 and is a close friend to the Qualls family. If Detroit’s most famous Dodge is the “Black Ghost”, then Eric Laesch is its exorcist. He has personally kept the infamous street demon running and driving in its preserved state for years.

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Eric is also an expert model car builder and has an impressive classic car collection including a 1965 Checker Marathon Station wagon, a 1967 Chrysler New Yorker, a 1980 Plymouth Gran Fury, a 2003 Saab 9-5, and a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor. However, his favorite is the Michigan State Police car he painstakingly restored over several years: a 1984 Plymouth Gran Fury A38 Police Pursuit pkg. Eric regularly attends car local shows and charity events here in Michigan and donates his extra time to his community and his church. 

 

Eric’s dream was to own his own classic car restoration and customization shop and as co-owner of Chase Classic Motors, LLC his dream is finally coming true.