10 Shows Like Tank Overhaul (2006)

Description: While 'MythBusters' focuses on testing popular myths, it shares with 'Tank Overhaul' a deep appreciation for mechanical engineering and problem-solving. Both shows highlight the practical application of science and technology, engaging viewers who enjoy seeing theories put into action or complex machinery being restored.

Fact: The hosts of 'MythBusters', Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, built their careers on special effects before the show. The show was originally intended to last only a few episodes but became a cultural phenomenon. Many of the experiments conducted on the show required custom-built machinery, echoing the bespoke restoration work in 'Tank Overhaul'.

Description: 'Counting Cars' is similar to 'Tank Overhaul' in its focus on the restoration of unique and often historically significant vehicles. Both shows appeal to viewers who appreciate the blend of history, mechanics, and artistry involved in vehicle restoration.

Fact: The show is set in Las Vegas and features the team at Count's Kustoms. Host Danny 'The Count' Koker is a well-known car and motorcycle enthusiast. The show often features celebrity clients and one-of-a-kind custom builds.

Description: 'Fast N' Loud' shares with 'Tank Overhaul' a focus on vehicle restoration, though it centers on cars rather than military vehicles. Both shows highlight the process of taking dilapidated vehicles and restoring them to their former glory, often with modern upgrades.

Fact: The show is based out of Gas Monkey Garage in Dallas, Texas. Host Richard Rawlings is known for his keen eye for profitable restoration projects. The show often features high-stakes auctions and sales, adding a financial dimension to the restoration process.

Description: Like 'Tank Overhaul', 'Bitchin' Rides' showcases the transformation of vehicles through skilled craftsmanship. Both shows highlight the attention to detail and passion required to restore and customize vehicles, whether they're tanks or classic cars.

Fact: The show is produced by Kindig-It Design, a renowned custom car shop. Host Dave Kindig is known for his innovative designs and high-quality builds. The show often features cutting-edge technology and materials in its restorations.

Description: 'Rust Valley Restorers' and 'Tank Overhaul' both focus on the restoration of vintage vehicles, often from a state of disrepair. Both shows highlight the challenges and rewards of bringing old machines back to life, with a strong emphasis on the personalities behind the work.

Fact: The show is set in British Columbia's Rust Valley, known for its car culture. Host Mike Hall is famous for his collection of over 400 cars. The show often deals with the tension between preserving history and making a profit, a theme that resonates with military vehicle restorations as well.

Description: Like 'Tank Overhaul', 'American Chopper' focuses on the restoration and customization of vehicles, specifically motorcycles. Both shows emphasize the craftsmanship, creativity, and technical skill required to transform old or broken machines into high-performance works of art.

Fact: The show is centered around Orange County Choppers, a custom motorcycle fabrication company. The dynamic between father Paul Teutul Sr. and son Paul Teutul Jr. was a major draw for viewers. Many of the bikes built on the show are themed, similar to how 'Tank Overhaul' might focus on historical accuracy or specific military eras.

Description: 'Overhaulin'' is closely aligned with 'Tank Overhaul' in its mission to restore and upgrade vehicles, though it focuses on surprising unsuspecting car owners with the transformations. Both shows celebrate the joy of restoration and the community around it.

Fact: The show was originally hosted by Chip Foose, a legendary car designer. Each episode involves a secret restoration project, with the owner being tricked into thinking their car was stolen. The show has a strong emphasis on the emotional impact of the restoration on the vehicle's owner.

Description: 'Dirty Jobs' and 'Tank Overhaul' both celebrate the often-overlooked skilled labor that goes into maintaining and restoring machinery and infrastructure. While 'Dirty Jobs' covers a wider array of professions, both shows provide an inside look at the gritty, hands-on work that keeps the mechanical world running.

Fact: Host Mike Rowe performed over 300 jobs during the show's run. 'Dirty Jobs' was initially conceived as a way to highlight blue-collar work that is essential but rarely glamorized. The show's success led to Rowe becoming a prominent advocate for skilled trades, much like how 'Tank Overhaul' showcases the value of mechanical restoration.

Description: Similar to 'Tank Overhaul', 'How It's Made' delves into the intricate processes behind manufacturing and restoration, albeit covering a broader range of products. Both shows appeal to audiences fascinated by engineering, craftsmanship, and the transformation of raw materials into functional or restored items.

Fact: 'How It's Made' has aired over 30 seasons since its debut. The show is known for its calm, almost meditative narration, which contrasts with the high-energy tone of many other discovery shows. It covers everything from everyday items like pencils to complex machinery, similar to the detailed tank restoration in 'Tank Overhaul'.

Description: Both 'Wheeler Dealers' and 'Tank Overhaul' follow the process of restoring vehicles, with a focus on the technical details and the satisfaction of bringing a neglected machine back to life. 'Wheeler Dealers' adds a buying and selling element, but the core appeal of mechanical restoration is the same.

Fact: The show originally featured Mike Brewer as the wheeler-dealer and Edd China as the mechanic. Each episode typically follows the purchase, restoration, and sale of a single vehicle. The show has been praised for its practical, budget-conscious approach to car restoration.