What Is Dan Short Net Worth?
As of 2026, Dan Short's estimated net worth is approximately $5 million, mostly built from his DRS Automotive FantomWorks auto restoration business and the former FantomWorks TV show.
Who owns FantomWorks garage?
FantomWorks garage is owned by Dan Short, who founded the business in 2006 in Norfolk, Virginia as DRS Automotive FantomWorks.
Short spent 24 years as a U.S. Army Special Forces member before launching the shop. The facility serves as both an active restoration shop and the original filming location for the reality series. Check the DRS Automotive website to verify current business status.
Is FantomWorks still in business?
Yes, FantomWorks remains open as of 2026, continuing its auto restoration operations despite the show ending in 2019.
The MotorTrend Network cancelled the show after the 9th season aired in December 2018. The Norfolk shop keeps running full steam, making it one of the largest restoration facilities in the country. Call (757) 461-3277 to confirm hours and services.
Who is the owner of FantomWorks?
Dan Short is the owner and founder of FantomWorks, having established the company in 2006 before the reality TV series began.
Short spent 24 years in the U.S. Army’s 5th Special Forces Group Airborne before turning his mechanical skills into one of America’s largest auto restoration businesses. The show ran for 9 seasons before cancellation, but the business carries on independently.
Why do doctors quit FantomWorks?
The grueling production schedule and financial pressure drove doctors to leave FantomWorks, with reports of over $1 million in debt among those involved.
Filming demands clashed with personal commitments, like caring for family members at end-of-life stages. High production costs and personal sacrifices made the working conditions unsustainable. Former cast members have spoken openly about these challenges.
How much is FantomWorks worth?
As of 2026, FantomWorks is valued at approximately $8–$10 million, factoring in business assets, equipment, and the Norfolk facility.
This valuation matches the shop’s reputation as one of the largest restoration facilities in the U.S., still operating commercially. Revenue streams include vehicle restoration, paint work, and fabrication services. Financial data from IBISWorld puts annual revenue near $1.2 million.
What happened to Dan Short FantomWorks?
Dan Short continues to run FantomWorks as a successful restoration business, keeping the Norfolk facility open after the TV show ended.
Short refocused on the business full-time after the show wrapped in 2019. The shop now employs around 12 people and specializes in high-end classic car restorations. The original filming location still operates as DRS Automotive FantomWorks.
How did David Grainger make his money?
David Grainger built his wealth through the Guild Of Automotive Restorers, which he founded in the mid-1990s.
His company focuses on brass-era cars, hot rods, and custom builds—including re-bodied Ferraris. Grainger’s deep expertise and reputation in the classic car world helped the business grow significantly. The company became known for top-tier restoration work and custom vehicle builds.
What is Heather Storm doing now?
As of 2026, Heather Storm hosts her own show called "Drive Yourself Local", traveling across the U.S. in her 1965 Ford Mustang.
She also co-hosts the "Man Seeks Adventure" podcast with Brad Fanshaw and Dave Marek. Storm’s projects center on small-town exploration and automotive storytelling. Her work highlights American road trips and cultural experiences beyond big cities.
Where is the TV show FantomWorks filmed at?
The TV show FantomWorks was filmed on location at DRS Automotive FantomWorks in Norfolk, Virginia, not on a soundstage.
The full restoration garage served as the authentic backdrop for all nine seasons. The facility includes bays for cars, motorcycles, aircraft, and boats—real workspaces for actual restoration projects. The show’s realism came from filming in an active, operational shop instead of a fake set.
How many employees does FantomWorks have?
As of 2026, FantomWorks employs about 15 full-time technicians and support staff, up from roughly 12 a few years ago.
The shop stands as the largest auto restoration facility in the U.S. by both square footage and team size. Staff handle everything from mechanical restoration to custom paint and fabrication. Payroll and staffing data show steady growth since the show ended.
What does the R stand for in DRS FantomWorks?
The "R" in DRS stands for "Restoration", making the full name "Daniel R. Short" in legal or business contexts.
Dan Short registered the business under his full name, so the initials DRS reflect that. Legal filings and contracts often list the company as "DRS Automotive FantomWorks, Inc." to show the owner’s identity and service focus. You’ll see this naming in court documents and corporate registrations.
Who is the office girl on FantomWorks?
Heidi is the office manager and customer relations contact at FantomWorks, known for her hands-on approach to shop operations.
She manages scheduling, customer inquiries, and shop coordination—often greeting visitors in person. While not a mechanic, her role keeps the business running smoothly behind the scenes. Heidi became a familiar face to show fans thanks to her frequent appearances.
What happened to Dave on graveyard cars?
Dave left the show after 21 episodes and now owns DB Restorations LLC, a Mopar-focused restoration shop in Creswell, Oregon.
He specializes in restoring 1968–1972 Mopar muscle cars. Leaving the show let him return to full-time restoration work without TV production pressures. His business continues to serve Mopar enthusiasts with period-correct builds.
How much does a Chip Foose car cost?
A hand-built custom car from Chip Foose typically costs between $1.5 million and $5 million+, depending on materials and client specs.
Foose Design projects often take 3–6 years to complete, reflecting true bespoke craftsmanship. Prices swing wildly based on engine choices, interior materials, and custom fabrication. Foose is widely seen as the top hot-rod designer in the world, so his rates reflect that.
Is Chip Foose still building cars?
Yes, Chip Foose continues to build custom cars as of 2026, running Foose Design in Huntington Beach, California.
He works with partners like Josh Kamholz and still runs his business after 30+ years in the trade. Foose remains active in TV too, appearing on "Overhaulin'" for multiple seasons. His shop builds both commissioned cars and speculative collector vehicles for the market.
