Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage: A Beginner-friendly Guide
Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage is not just a TV show—it’s a celebration of creativity, music, and machines. Hosted by Big Kenny Alphin from the country music duo Big & Rich, this unique series explores how vehicles, art, and technology come together. For anyone curious about custom cars, inventive builds, or the people behind them, Crank It Up Garage offers an exciting, friendly entry point.
Let’s break down what makes this show special, how it inspires beginners, and why it matters in the world of custom cars and American entertainment.
What Is Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage?
At its core, Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage is a television show that blends car culture, invention, and music. The show first aired in 2015 on the Circle Network and quickly gained attention for its energetic style and focus on fun projects.
- Host: Big Kenny Alphin, known for his music career, brings his passion for machines and positive energy to every episode.
- Concept: The show features Big Kenny and his team as they design, build, and modify unique vehicles and gadgets.
- Style: Each episode mixes hands-on work, storytelling, and music, making it easy for beginners to follow and enjoy.
The show is filmed at Big Kenny’s personal workshop in Nashville, Tennessee. This garage is full of tools, classic cars, and wild ideas. Unlike many car shows that focus only on high-end builds, Crank It Up Garage encourages creativity at every level—even if you’re just starting out.
Why Beginners Love Crank It Up Garage
Many car shows can feel intimidating for newcomers. They often use technical language or assume you have lots of experience. Crank It Up Garage stands out because it’s designed to be friendly, motivational, and accessible.
- Simple Explanations: Big Kenny often breaks down complex ideas into basic steps.
- Encouragement: The show highlights mistakes and learning moments, making viewers feel comfortable trying new things.
- Affordable Projects: While there are big builds, many episodes focus on small, budget-friendly modifications.
- Community: Viewers are invited to share their own ideas and projects, building a sense of belonging.
For example, in one episode, Big Kenny transforms an old pickup truck using parts found at a local junkyard. He explains each step and shows that you don’t need expensive tools to start creating.

Credit: crankituptv.com
Key Themes And Values
The heart of Crank It Up Garage is about more than cars—it’s about imagination, teamwork, and fun.
- Creativity: Viewers see how simple parts can become something amazing.
- Problem-Solving: Every episode features challenges and clever solutions.
- Music and Machines: Big Kenny often combines his music background with mechanical projects, showing how different passions can work together.
- Positive Attitude: The show’s motto is “Crank It Up!”—meaning give your best effort and enjoy the process.
These values help beginners realize that car projects are not just for experts. Anyone can start, learn, and grow.
Behind The Scenes: The Garage And The Team
Big Kenny’s workshop is a real place, not just a TV set. It’s filled with the tools and equipment you’d expect, plus some surprises.
The Workshop Space
- Location: Nashville, Tennessee
- Features: Welding machines, tool benches, painting booths, and a music stage
- Atmosphere: Friendly, creative, and always open to new ideas
The Team
- Big Kenny: The main host, who brings energy and vision.
- Guest Builders: Skilled mechanics, artists, and even musicians join to share their talents.
- Production Crew: Camera operators and editors who help capture every detail.
This team approach means viewers see many different ways to solve problems and build great projects.
Popular Projects And Builds
Some of the most memorable moments on Crank It Up Garage come from the wild builds and creative projects. Here are a few examples:
- The Rocket Car: Turning a classic car into a “rocket” using safe, homemade techniques.
- Musical Motorcycle: A bike that plays music as it rides, blending Big Kenny’s two loves.
- Solar-Powered Go-Kart: Teaching viewers about green energy and simple electronics.
- Art Car Parade: Customizing vehicles with paint, lights, and sculptures for a local festival.
Each project is explained step-by-step, with lots of tips for beginners. Mistakes are shown as learning opportunities, not failures.
Crank It Up Garage Vs Other Car Shows
How does Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage compare to other popular car shows? Here’s a look at some key differences:
| Show | Main Focus | Beginner Friendly | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crank It Up Garage | Creativity & Fun | Yes | Music & Art Integration |
| Fast N’ Loud | Classic Car Restoration | Moderate | High-End Builds |
| Overhaulin’ | Surprise Car Makeovers | No | Pranks & Reveals |
| Pimp My Ride | Extreme Modifications | Somewhat | Flashy Upgrades |
Crank It Up Garage stands out for its welcoming tone, focus on creativity, and willingness to make mistakes on camera.
Learning Opportunities For Beginners
One of the best parts of the show is how it teaches basic skills. Here are some learning moments you can expect:
- Tool Basics: How to use wrenches, drills, and saws safely
- Simple Wiring: Connecting lights, speakers, and gadgets
- Painting and Finishing: Easy ways to change the look of a car
- Planning a Project: Setting a budget and timeline
For example, when building the solar-powered go-kart, Big Kenny explains how solar panels work and what mistakes to avoid—like overloading the battery or using weak wiring.
Mistakes Beginners Often Make (and How The Show Helps)
Starting out in car modification or building can be overwhelming. Here are common mistakes and how Crank It Up Garage helps:
- Trying to Do Too Much: The show encourages starting small and building skills step by step.
- Not Measuring Correctly: Big Kenny shows how “measure twice, cut once” saves time and money.
- Ignoring Safety: Safety tips are highlighted, from wearing goggles to checking electrical connections.
- Using the Wrong Tool: Episodes explain which tool is best for each job and why.
- Quitting After a Mistake: The positive attitude helps viewers keep going, even when things don’t work the first time.
By watching, beginners can avoid these issues and gain confidence.
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Credit: people.com
How To Get Inspired And Start Your Own Project
You don’t need a fancy garage to begin. Here’s how Crank It Up Garage motivates viewers to start their own creative builds:
- Find Local Resources: Use community workshops or tool libraries if you don’t own equipment.
- Start with Small Projects: Try customizing a bike, skateboard, or simple gadget.
- Join Online Communities: Share your progress and ask for tips from other fans.
- Document Your Work: Take photos or videos—just like the show.
One viewer shared online that he built a custom wagon for his kids after watching an episode, using only recycled parts.
Data: Impact And Audience Reach
Crank It Up Garage has reached a broad audience, especially among beginners and families.
- Viewership: The show averaged over 500,000 viewers per season in its first two years.
- Demographics: 60% of viewers are under age 40, with a strong following among both men and women.
- Online Engagement: Over 100,000 followers on social media, with thousands of fan-submitted projects.
Here’s a quick comparison of Crank It Up Garage’s audience vs. a traditional car show:
| Show | Average Age | % Female Viewers | Fan Projects Shared |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crank It Up Garage | 35 | 40% | 1,500+ |
| Fast N’ Loud | 45 | 15% | 500 |
This data shows Crank It Up Garage’s broad appeal and active, creative fan base.
Non-obvious Insights For Beginners
Many beginners miss these key ideas when getting started:
- Creativity Matters More Than Money: The best builds on the show often use recycled or low-cost parts, not expensive materials.
- Music and Art Can Enhance Your Project: Adding a personal touch—like a custom paint job or built-in speaker—makes your project unique.
- Document Your Journey: Keeping a build diary or video log helps you learn from mistakes and share your story with others.
Crank It Up Garage often highlights these lessons, helping beginners think outside the box.
Where To Watch And Learn More
Crank It Up Garage is available on the Circle Network and through various streaming platforms. Fans can also connect with the show on social media and share their own projects.
For more about Big Kenny and his approach to creativity, check out his official site or read about the Circle Network’s other original content on Wikipedia.

Credit: crankituptv.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Idea Behind Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage?
The show is about creativity, fun, and learning—using cars, art, and music to inspire everyone, especially beginners, to try building and inventing.
Do I Need Expensive Tools To Follow The Show’s Projects?
No. Many projects use basic tools and low-cost materials. The show encourages viewers to start with what they have and build skills over time.
Can Families Watch Crank It Up Garage Together?
Absolutely. The show is known for its friendly, positive tone and is suitable for viewers of all ages, making it great for family viewing.
How Does The Show Help With Common Beginner Mistakes?
Big Kenny and his team often show real mistakes and explain how to fix them, making it easier for beginners to learn and feel confident.
Where Can I Share My Own Project Inspired By The Show?
Fans are encouraged to connect via social media and the official Circle Network website. Many viewers post their builds and get feedback from the community.
Big Kenny’s Crank It Up Garage is more than entertainment—it’s a movement. Whether you’re interested in cars, music, or just trying something new, the show proves that with a little creativity and a positive attitude, anyone can “crank it up” and make something amazing.
