And he comes by it honestly, given it’s his day job.

An avid researcher and reader, Jon knows antique motorcycles at an expert level.

So he went to work and became “the only guy in the world who makes those carburetors.”

American Pickers star Jon

Image via History Channel

In the 1980s, Jon’s passion for acquiring and restoring antique motorcycle engines was born.

He had an early interest in restoration and American-made products.

“But it was hard because I was in South Jersey.”

Promo picture for American Pickers with a neon sign pointing to Mike Wolfe and Danielle Colby.

Image via The History Channel

“I was making cabinets in my bedroom at the time,” he shared.

Working from his bedroom didn’t last.

He continued to read about woodworking, which fueled his passion for quality.

American Pickers cast photo featuring Robbie Wolfe, Danielle Colby, Mike Wolfe and Jon “Jersey Jon” Szalay in a garage.

Image via History Channel

Eventually, Jon developed a love of furniture restoration.

The pair also has another, not quite so friendly, connection: controversy.

From picking antiques to picking roles.

Mike Wolfe from ‘American Pickers’ sitting on a couch surrounded by items

NEXT: Why Did It Take So Long For ‘Celebrity Big Brother UK’ to Eject Mickey Rourke?

Your Rating

Your comment has not been saved

Cast

American Pickers (2010)

Cast Placeholder Image

Reality TV