Daily Big Rig: Spectacular ‘Baby Cakes’ 2000 Peterbilt 379

In the heartland of America, where the open road stretches for miles, and the rumble of diesel engines is a symphony of industry, one truck has carved out a special place in the hearts of those who encounter it. Meet ‘Baby Cakes,’ the 2000 Peterbilt 379 owned by Chris Homfeld of Classic Trucking LLC. This remarkable rig, showcased at the 2023 Guilty By Association Truck Show, is not just a truck; it’s a testament to the dedication, craftsmanship, and passion that has spanned decades.

A Life Immersed in Trucking

Chris Homfeld’s life has been intertwined with the trucking industry since childhood. Growing up with his father as a trucker, he absorbed the ins and outs of the profession early on. When he reached the age to make his own choices, he eagerly embraced trucking, becoming an owner-operator at 23 or 24. His journey in trucking has been a rollercoaster of experiences, with myriad roles and challenges along the way.

Today, Homfeld’s Classic Trucking LLC primarily focuses on hauling reefer freight across the Midwest. But his career has been diverse, spanning various aspects of trucking, excluding tankers and end dumps. “I’ve been an owner-operator ever since I really started,” he reminisced. “But I bought my first truck when I was 23, 24, so I’ve been there all the time. It’s been a long process. A lot of ups, a lot of downs. I’ve seen everything.”

The Birth of ‘Baby Cakes’

Around 18 years ago, Chris Homfeld acquired the 2000 Peterbilt 379 that would later become ‘Baby Cakes.’ This truck earned its endearing nickname from Homfeld’s sister-in-law, who affectionately saw it as the “love of his life.” From the moment he laid eyes on it, Homfeld had a vision: to transform this truck into a showstopper. With 2.5 million miles on the odometer, he’s turned that vision into reality.

One of the standout features of ‘Baby Cakes’ is its striking color scheme. Homfeld describes it as an “orchid color with a lot of metal flake.” This daring choice has garnered admiration from his family and fellow trucking enthusiasts. Despite initial skepticism from some quarters, Homfeld’s love for the color and the overall aesthetic of the truck has proven to be a crowd-pleaser.

Under the Hood and Beyond

Under the vibrant exterior, ‘Baby Cakes’ boasts impressive specifications. Sitting on a 295-inch wheelbase, the truck features a deck plate painted to match the truck’s orchid paint scheme, outlined in stainless. A Signature 600 Cummins engine powers it, mated to an 18-speed transmission and 3.55 rears. This powerhouse ensures that ‘Baby Cakes’ looks good and can perform with the best of them.

In his relentless pursuit of perfection, Homfeld has left no stone unturned. ‘Baby Cakes’ is a work in progress, with practically everything on the truck having undergone a transformation. From headlights to mirrors, grille to visors, and more, virtually every aspect that isn’t painted now gleams with stainless or chrome. This attention to detail and the meticulous craftsmanship are what sets ‘Baby Cakes’ apart.

A Family Tradition and a Labor of Love

The story of ‘Baby Cakes’ is not just about a truck; it’s a story of family, tradition, and love. Chris Homfeld’s father played a significant role in the journey of this truck, and its vibrant paint job was a collaborative effort between his father, his wife, and himself. “It’s been a big thing,” Homfeld reflected. “Just loved the truck. It’s been part of my life.”

When he first bought ‘Baby Cakes,’ Homfeld’s dream was clear – it would be their show truck. This vision drove him to simplify the truck’s aesthetics, opting for a cleaner, more traditional look. Despite initial reservations from some quarters, the end result has exceeded expectations. The addition of new headlights, a redesigned grille, stainless accents, and modern mirrors have brought a contemporary touch to this classic beauty.

‘Baby Cakes’ may have started as a truck but has evolved into a rolling masterpiece. With its vibrant colors, meticulous detailing, and a history filled with love and dedication, it continues to be a source of pride for Chris Homfeld and a symbol of what passion and perseverance can achieve in the world of trucking. As it continues to traverse the highways of America, ‘Baby Cakes’ is not just a truck; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the American trucker and the timeless allure of classic rigs.

See more photos and thanks: Custom Rigs