Bakersfield, California · Est. 1998 · By Appointment Only
Some Cars Are Built.
Yours Will Be a Masterpiece.
Dave Harness has spent 40 years turning boxes of parts into the cars his clients have dreamed about their entire lives. He takes very few projects. Yours could be next.
About Dave & The Shop
Trusted Advisor.
Master Craftsman.
The Harness Works is not a production shop. It is a one-man atelier where every project receives Dave's complete, undivided attention from the first conversation to the final detail. Dave founded the shop in 1998 after spending decades mastering every discipline of automotive restoration — metal fabrication, paint, bodywork, mechanical, and interior.
He works exclusively with clients who value expertise over speed and craftsmanship over cost. If you want the cheapest option, Dave is not your man. If you want it done right — once, completely, without compromise — there is no one better in the valley.
Dave's builds use only premium materials: LIMCO, Glasurit, RM paint systems, Edelbrock, Holley performance components, and the finest upholstery materials available. Nothing leaves the shop that Dave wouldn't be proud to put his name on.
What We Do
Bespoke Automotive Services
Period Correct. Uncompromised.
Frame-Off Restoration
Every nut, bolt, and panel returned to factory spec — or better. Dave disassembles to bare metal, addresses every hidden issue, and rebuilds with the obsessive precision of a man who has done this for four decades. The result is a car more correct than the day it left the factory.
The Work
Project Gallery
What Clients Say
100% Recommend
"If you want it nice and done right the first time, skip the BS and bring your vehicle to Dave at The Harness Works. He's talented and a gentleman."
"If you're looking for very clean, meticulous, high-quality work, this is the place. I have been a customer and business associate for 20 plus years. I can't say enough."
"Dave has always been our go-to for paint and body work. I have known him for over 40 years and I can vouch for him without hesitation. There is no one better."
"For anyone who loves cars — this is THE place. The passion Dave brings to every project is unlike anything I've seen in this industry. My car is a masterpiece."
Ready to Build
Your Dream Car?
Dave takes a limited number of projects each year. Chat with Gracie to describe your build, get a preliminary quote, and secure your spot on his calendar. Available 24/7.