For over 46 years, Dennis Carpenter Car Parts has stood as a beacon of quality for Ford restoration enthusiasts. This family-owned and operated company, helmed by Dennis and Daniel Carpenter, began its journey with a simple need and a resourceful solution. In the early days, finding factory-correct replacement dash knobs for a 1940 Ford convertible was nearly impossible. Dennis Carpenter, working from his home, took matters into his own hands, hand-pouring plastic dash knobs. The overwhelming demand for these precise, unavailable parts marked the inception of Dennis Carpenter Car Parts.
From those humble beginnings, the company rapidly expanded its capabilities and product offerings. The acquisition of their first injection molding machine soon followed, enabling larger production runs and even higher quality knobs. This commitment to quality and meeting the needs of the Ford restoration community fueled further growth. Dennis Carpenter Car Parts broadened its manufacturing to include rubber seals, rubber bumpers, die-cast chrome components, and stamped metal parts, solidifying its position as a comprehensive source for Ford restoration components.
A significant milestone in the company’s history arrived in 1998 when Ford Motor Company granted Dennis Carpenter the prestigious honor of utilizing original Ford factory tooling. This access allowed them to produce numerous parts to the exact original specifications, ensuring unparalleled authenticity for restorations. Today, Dennis Carpenter Car Parts operates a substantial facility with over 160 dedicated employees, equipped with 12 plastic injection molding machines, a rubber extrusion line, 54 rubber molding machines, 48 metal stamping presses, 2 zinc die casting machines, 3 roller mills, and a host of other specialized machinery – all dedicated to crafting exceptional Ford parts right here in America.
In a market often dominated by overseas sourcing for restoration parts due to cost considerations, Dennis Carpenter Car Parts takes immense pride in its commitment to American manufacturing. An impressive 85% of their rubber products, 95% of their stamped metal parts, 99% of their plastic injected parts, and a full 100% of their Ford tooling parts are manufactured within the United States. While American-made products may sometimes carry a slightly higher price point compared to imported alternatives, the assurance of superior materials and long-lasting durability that comes with Dennis Carpenter Car Parts provides restorers with invaluable peace of mind. When you choose Dennis Carpenter, you are investing in quality, authenticity, and the enduring legacy of Ford vehicles.