There’s a new contender moving up the ranks in this thrilling world of C10 restorations: Project Rocky, a 1979 Chevy C10, poised to redefine what it means to be a classic. For those who might have missed a beat in our journey, welcome back to the show. We are refocused on this project after a long hiatus while Rocky was at the paint and body shop, as well as our dedication to Sergeant Square, our military charity build for Mission 22. But now, the spotlight is back on Rocky, and we’re excited to bring you up to speed.
Picture this: a truck stripped down to its very core. Every nut, every bolt, every inch will be transformed. The old body panels are making way for new ones from Auto Metal Direct. They will be prepped and restored to an even better version than its original.
At the core of it all lies our chassis, the foundation upon which Rocky stands. We’re not merely refurbishing; we’re enhancing. Strengthening the structure, tweaking the aesthetics, and it all starts here. While the factory frame and original cab stand resilient, everything else will be a modern version, courtesy of some remarkable American companies that support our vision.
To upgrade the suspension, we collaborated with partners like Rock Auto who provided OEM suspension components, BDS Suspension for a larger-than-life stance, and Performance Online for a brake upgrade that is necessary for a build of this caliper. The wheels have been upgraded to a dazzling new set from American Force, wrapped in 33-inch Toyo Tires.
Our cab is now rust-free thanks to the team at Street Dreams paint and body shop in Ocala, Florida, and now wears a coat of Ferrari Red. With fresh glass from National Parts Depot and rubber seals from Steele Rubber, every detail has been planned to perfection.
Under the hood, the heart of this prize fighter is a new Summit Racing 5.3-liter LS crate engine, complete with accessories from Lokar Performance. This combo promises power, performance, and a style like no other. Our story doesn’t end here. We can only fit so much into the pages of this magazine, so we invite you to join us through our video series on YouTube. Project Rocky is more than a restoration; it’s a testament to passion for any and all C10 enthusiasts. Let’s go!
It’s that time of year again! The holidays are upon us, as is the stress of figuring out what to buy for others. More importantly, it’s also prime time to fine tune and finalize your own gift wish list. That’s right—there’s nothing wrong with asking Santa or your significant others and kids for something nice for yourself or, better yet, your project truck. Remember, it’s also 100% OK to treat yourself during this very special time. Don’t let any grinches out there tell you any differently!
Buying and receiving gift cards is acceptable, but allow us to help point you in the direction of much more meaningful and thoughtful gift ideas. From useful personal items to a brand-new set of wheels or a high-end custom chassis system, we’ve collected a grouping of goods that anyone would love to find waiting for them underneath the tree. Sure, a long-to-shortbed conversion kit is a pretty specific item to buy for someone, but surely you must know somebody out there who has been saving up to buy one all year long. Do something nice and surprise that person with one or maybe even a pair of brand-new hood hinges or a cool all-purpose knife.
What we’re trying to say is that gift giving is a love language that will benefit everyone on your shopping list during the holiday season. Follow along and check out the batch of new products we have hand-selected for your consideration. Each one is sure to make the truck junkies in your circle smile big this year.
Add some spice to your life with these two-piece billet wheels from US Mags. Part of the new Street Heat wheel lineup, the Jalapeno is a ’90s inspired hot-rod style wheel that is available in 17-inch through 28-inch diameter sizes for the perfect fit on mini-trucks as well as late-model and classic full-size pickups and SUVs. Custom offsets and finishes are available, as well as five other wheel selections within the Street Heat collection.
US Mags Wheels
800-260-2522
www.us-mags.com
You may already have a trusty Bluetooth speaker, but it probably doesn’t offer the features Kicker’s Bullfrog BF100 has. First off, this unit has four speakers wired into it, along with 16 watts of power! The Bluetooth range of up to 100 feet allows for you to float free from the speaker without having to sacrifice function. Speaking of floating, the speaker is also waterproof—not water resistant. Take it to the lake or pool without worrying about it falling in the water and shorting out. To enjoy even better sound quality, download Kicker’s Connect app to take advantage of a five-band equalizer and volume control to better tune it to your ear.
Kicker Audio
405-624-8583
www.kicker.com
The Slidebar stereo for 1967-1972 Chevy trucks features a classic analog face that disappears to show a digital radio, offering the ultimate in classic style with modern functions. The Slidebar boasts a digital tuner with 300 watts of power, a USB port, a CD changer controller, and built-in Bluetooth capability. This unit is also the only in-dash radio that Custom Autosound offers with a subwoofer pre-out and a customizable multi-color display. Installation is simple as the Slidebar radio fits into the stock dash location without any modifications required.
Custom Autosound Mfg.
800-888-8637
customautosoundmfg.com
Boost your MXT400 performance to the max with this powerful package that features the 40-watt MXT400 MicroMobile two-way radio, antenna mounting bracket, antenna cable, and 3dB gain ghost antenna. This bundle has everything you need to boost your communication to new levels while out on the trails.
Midland
midlandusa.com
Available for ’55-’59 and ’67-’72 Chevy truck applications, Eddie Motorsports’ Kinetic hood hinges feature a more custom machined window design for enthusiasts looking to show off stronger visual appeal. These babies are CNC machined to perfection in the USA from high-quality 6061-T6 billet aluminum and function with the enhanced help of nitrogen-filled gas struts and sealed bearings. Treat your truck to new, better looking hood hinges that will deliver a smoother operation that you’ll fall in love with. These hinge kits are available in a machined or polished finish or choose from Eddie’s selection of custom Fusioncoat colors.
Eddie Motorsports
888-813-1293
www.eddiemotorsports.com
This direct-mount front brake kit for 2010-2018 Ford F-150 models provides better holding power and more thermal capacity for high-demand highway use, including towing and hauling. The components used are engineered for direct mounting on stock knuckles and eliminate the need for additional brackets, which makes the kit more affordable. Forged aluminum AERO6-DM 6-piston calipers deliver increased clamping force and are compatible with OEM rear brakes, master cylinder, and onboard computer systems. If your truck is equipped with 17-inch or larger diameter wheels, this braking kit is designed to fit your application.
Wilwood
805-388-1188
wilwood.com
TCI has designed multiple chassis setups for ’63-’87 C10 and ’69-’72 K5 Blazer models. Those who are looking to go as low as possible with their project will be able to lay frame with the Grounded system, and builders hoping to whip around the track will be able to get their kicks in with the Pro Touring frame. Both options are laser cut and jig-welded for the utmost precision and strength, and they feature widened front frame rails to allow more room for headers and upgraded steering components. The narrowed rear allows for outboard-mounted shocks and wider tires, and the 12-piece center section will stay ultra-rigid no matter how much horsepower and torque are applied to it. While many optional add-on parts are available, all TCI chassis come standard with a complete Currie 9-inch differential including 31 spline axles with your choice of gearing.
Total Cost Involved
866-925-1098
totalcostinvolved.com
Clean up your brake lines, cables, and more with these handy-dandy clamp kits from Lokar. Molded from nylon, these will not fade or stain and will withstand contact with all automotive fluids. These are truly built for the long haul. Each kit contains a variety of T-clamps designed to keep your lines in place and includes stainless steel hardware that comes packaged in a convenient plastic storage case.
Lokar
877-469-7440
lokar.com
Available for most 1967-2010 GMC and Chevy trucks, Western Chassis’ rear flip kit can drop the rear 5 to 8 inches by relocating the rear axle to the top of the leaf springs. Each kit comes with 3/8-inch plate axle relocator saddles, fresh U-bolts, six-hole plates, and all the fasteners required for successful installation. Visit Western Chassis’ website or give customer service a call to order the exact kit you’ll need to slam your truck with the quickness.
Western Chassis
888-999-9139
westernchassis.com
Avoid excessive damage to your truck’s engine by keeping better tabs on oil pressure with this 52mm accessory gauge from Prosport. It features a fully programmable warning feature that allows for much safer, worry-free operation. This is especially valuable when your truck is out on the track. Choose from two color choices and install with ease with the included wire harness and mounting base.
Prosport Performance
727-572-9011
prosportgauges.com
The Guardian 3.5 sheepsfoot knife (top) is a great working tool that is ideal for compact carry yet comfortable for extended periods of duty. The sheepsfoot blade offers a flatter cutting edge for better slicing, and the rounded tip allows for a safer working end. The Guardian 5.5 (bottom) offers improved grip and better security than the Guardian 5. Whether you are working or traveling, either of these knife options are great tools to have while camping, hiking, or enjoying other outdoor adventures.
Bradford Knives
425-243-9606
bradfordknives.com
TMI Products has recently introduced the Saddle Brown vinyl into its insanely popular, budget friendly Cruiser Collection lineup. The front buckets are offered in two distinct styles: the Cruiser Pro-Classic and Cruiser Low Back. The former selection (pictured) features moderate bolstering with a slightly wider design, which makes them a great fit for trucks and larger vehicles. The latter seats (not pictured) are engineered with much more aggressive bolstering to keep you planted for hours of comfortable excitement. Fans of bench seating will dig the 55- or 60-inch Cruiser bench that boasts a split-back design for easy access to the rear seat or storage area behind them. All three of these seat options are designed with a universal fitment to adapt with most vehicles, including the truck you’re either driving or building.
TMI Products
888-460-0640
www.tmiproducts.com
Designed for ’63-’72 Chevy C10 longbed trucks, this shortbed conversion kit will give you everything you’ll need to successfully shorten your truck’s longbed frame with basic hand tools that you probably already have in your home garage. This kit does require welding to finish the conversion, but with the included steel inner braces, you’ll be able to safely transport your truck to an experienced welder if need be. Don’t wait any longer to get the wheelbase you truly want.
Performance Online
800-638-1703
www.performanceonline.com
All American Billet’s serpentine kits are a great way to clean up any engine compartment. Made in the USA, these packages come standard with high-quality accessories. The brackets are constructed of 6061-T6 aluminum, and they’re offered in your choice of a machined, polished the company’s exclusive Silverline Series finish. Choose from two different pulley styles—classic (with no holes or cutouts) or original (with triangular cutouts). Further customize your serpentine kit with an optional Flex Fan option instead of an electric fan, standard slotted or smooth classic design pulleys, and more.
All American Billet
844-BILLET1
allamericanbillet.com
This ’73-’87 GM Squarebody dash kit just won the Goodguys People’s Choice Best New Product for 2023, and it’s now available to include in your very own truck project. Reignite the timeless charm of the ’70s and ’80s with New Vintage USA’s NVU M-102 Series dash, which is a groundbreaking leap into the combination of retro inspiration and modern engineering. This Detroit-built kit includes all mounting hardware and senders, and features an easy wiring design.
New Vintage USA
248-850-5482
newvintageusallc.mybigcommerce.com
This budget friendly, highly convenient dual pack features two 444C compressors with the newly developed head assembly with patent pending intercooler head, which are each capable of a maximum 200 psi with 100% duty cycle. This compressor pack can power a full air suspension system with power to spare and is available in an optional chrome or stealth black finish. Find this dual pack in stock and ready to ship before the holidays!
Low Rider Depot
877-698-3115
www.lowriderdepot.com
The Classic Fit premium columns are designed as direct bolt-ins for specific cars and trucks. These feature the appropriate length and mounting locations, four-way flasher, and wiring installation, and are available in satin black or chrome finish for Ford F-100 and Bronco models along with C10 applications in OE length or 1.5-inch shorter measurements.
Classic Performance Products
800-522-5004
classicperform.com
Eddie Motorsports’ new Sport Series billet aluminum steering wheels are precision CNC-machined in the USA from 6061-T6 billet aluminum. They are available in a 14-inch diameter and include a synthetic leather half-wrap grip. The wheels are offered with seven custom spoke finishes and six different color grips for a total of 82 different combinations to help customize your interior. These steering wheels are designed as a direct bolt-on to update the standard stock or an existing aftermarket wheel.
Eddie Motorsports
888-813-1293
www.eddiemotorsports.com
Ready to replace your outdated factory interior window crank, vent crank, and door handles? Eddie Motorsports has created billet handles for interior windows and doors for Ford trucks. Features include precision-machined T-6061 billet with a new modern shape for your window crank, vent crank, and door handle. Finishes are available in polished, satin, matte black, gloss black, as well as Fusioncoat red, blue, or white. These are direct replacements on stock Ford splines, and they’re sold in pairs.
Eddie Motorsports
888-813-1293
www.eddiemotorsports.com
Dress up your 1980-’86 Ford F-Series truck with the latest LED Digital Replacement Gauge Panel by Intellitronix (Part #DP1011), available from Auto Metal Direct. This panel comes with direct-fit printed circuit boards; custom-fit smoked Plexiglass faceplate; universal temperature-, oil pressure-, and speedometer-sending units with sender and sensor for vehicles without electronic transmission or cruise control; and instructions for installation. Colors are white, red, blue, green, and teal, and they come with all required sending and sensor units.
The panel also features turn signals and high beam indicators. Its speedometer reads up to 255 mph, and it features odometer, trip meter, one-button calibration (regardless of tire size, gear ratio, or transmission), 0-60 time, quarter-mile elapsed time, and high-speed recall, all with the push of a button. The speedometer can be used with electronic cruise control senders or use the included S9024 universal speedometer sending unit if your vehicle is not equipped with a functional cruise control. The bezel is not included.
Intellitronix
440-359-7200
www.intellitronix.com
TCI Engineering offers its 1948-1956 Ford Truck Grounded Chassis. The rear frame rails have been kicked up and the front crossmember has been raised to put the running boards 1 inch off ground with 26-inch (front) and 28-inch (rear) tires. The frame features main rails with an extended height from 6 inches to 8 inches for increased rigidity. The clearance between upper and lower crossmembers is maximized while still retaining the original frame profile. The center section is custom built for each chassis to match the customer specified engine and transmission. The price is $16,538 with an eight-week lead time.
Total Cost Involved Engineering, Inc.
866-925-1097
www.totalcostinvolved.com
This American-made 1953-1964 Ford F-100 custom IFS is engineered for easy installation, enhanced drivability, and a broader range of alignment adjustments. This frontend is based on Total Cost Involved’s custom designed spindle with bolt-on steering arms and proprietary geometry to maximize comfort and performance. The offset stainless eccentric adjuster provides easy camber and caster adjustments. It’s available with dropped or stock-height spindles to provide a ride height that matches your specific desires. The price is $4,130 with a 48-hour lead time.
Total Cost Involved Engineering, Inc.
866-925-1097
www.totalcostinvolved.com
Air Lift Company introduces the LoadLifter 5000-series kits, LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate kits, and Air Lift ProSeries kits for the 2023 Ford F-250/F-350 4WD SRW. They’re designed to make towing and hauling a comfortable experience.
The LoadLifter 5000 (Part #57354) offers up to 5,000 lbs. of load-leveling capacity through double-bellow air springs paired with upper and lower roll plates and ultra-high-strength nylon end caps.
The LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate (Part #88354) offers all the benefits of the LoadLifter 5000, with the addition of an internal jounce bumper, which helps to smooth transitions over rough roads, helping to prevent bottoming out and offering extra protection for heavy loads.
The Pro Series (Part #93354) is an installer-exclusive kit option that is a variation on the LoadLifter 5000, with aluminum-anodized end caps and stainless-steel end cap hardware. Available exclusively to Air Lift dealers and installers, the ProSeries kits provide a unique opportunity to compete with the growing e-commerce market.
The LoadLifter 7500 XL Ultimate kit (Part #57554) offers up to 7,500 pounds load-leveling capacity, with roll plates for added protection and ultra-high-strength composite formula end caps. This kit includes a pair of massive 7-inch, double-convoluted bellows air springs. The larger air springs allow greater leveling abilities at lower air pressures than similar systems.
Air Lift Company
800-248-0892
www.airliftcompany.com
There is no better way to add “wow” factor to your engine’s appearance and performance than by installing a high-quality serpentine pulley component system.
Eddie Motor Sports in Rancho Cucamonga, California, offers its S-Drive pulley system, which comes complete with a six-rib serpentine belt that’s routed by CNC-machined 6061T6 aluminum pulleys. The S-Drive pulley systems include all of the necessary stainless steel fasteners and high-quality, name brand components, including an Edelbrock water pump, Marval power steering pump, Powermaster alternator, Sanden A/C compressor and Gates belt tensioner and six-rib serpentine belt. The kits are available in raw machined or highly polished finish or in a variety of anodized Fusion-coat colors.
Follow along as John Mutch at Savi Ranch Automotive installs an Eddie Motorsports S-Drive serpentine pulley system on a Chevy 350 small-block.
Eddie Motorsports
888.813.1293
Eddiemotorsports.com
Savi Ranch Auto Care Center
22945 Savi Ranch Pkwy.
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
714.282.7498
NEW PRODUCTS
Smooth functionality with outstanding appearance is designed into every set of Eddie Motorsports’ Billet Hood Hinges and their latest addition is for the popular GM classics including 1967-1969 Camaro & Firebird, 1964-1967 Chevelle, 1963-1967 Impala, 1964-1967 GTO, and 1964-1967 Olds Cutlass.
Eddie Motorsports
Eddiemotorsports.com
Forget the core charge! Chevs of the 40s’ new replacement clutch kits for 1938-53 Chevy cars and trucks come with a 9″ clutch, pressure plate, pilot bushing, throwout bearing, alignment tool, and lube.
Chevs of the 40s
Chevsofthe40s.com
Classic Industries’ latest in the line of Mopar Authentic Restoration Products is a new remote outer door mirror from OER. It fits the driver’s side (left hand) door of a variety of Dodge and Plymouth vehicles, specifically 1966-72 A-Body models equipped with a vent window and remote mirror option, and 1966-70 B-Body models.
Classic Industries
Classicindustries.com
Protect wiring, hoses, fuel lines, hydraulic lines and other similar components in the highest automotive heat conditions with Heatshield Products Lava Tube. The material is specially formulated and uses a fibrous thermal-barrier weave made from volcanic rock. The basalt fiber allows Lava Tube to protect components from continuous temperatures of 1,200° Fahrenheit, and intermittent temperatures of 2,000° Fahrenheit.
Heatshield Products
Heatshieldproducts.com
Summit Racing has you covered with its new Garage Cabinetry Sets. They are a convenient place to store things and give you a place to get actual work done. Features include: Industrial-grade steel construction, high-quality, welded frame construction, 3.2 mil thick epoxy powdercoat paint finish, HMC high-security tubular locking system and keys, and tough bamboo work bench surfaces
Summit Racing
ClassicIndustries.com
Racepak’s IQ3D Drag Logger Dash is designed for the sportsman drag racer looking for a compact, all-in-one solution for data logging and instrumentation. It eliminates the need for an external data logger, and features an easy to access MicroSD memory card, four user-definable display pages, programmable shift and warning lights, and the ability to display up to 28 inputs.
Racepak
Racepak.com
Performance Automatic has new Ford 6 Speed Coyote Street Smart Transmission Packages complete with everything you need: 11.5” Factory Spec Torque Converter, flex plate, block plate, inspection cover, “6600” Stand Alone Transmission Controller and wiring harness, plus all the required hardware.
Performance Automatic
Performanceautomatic.com
Classic Instruments has just released their updated gear selector interface module the SN46Z. The kit includes a transmission mounted sensor and interface module that works with Classic Instruments’ gear selector gauges or individual LED indicator lights. The transmission sensor works with most three and four speed automatic transmissions and easily connects to the shift arm with the included parts.
Classic Instruments
Classicinstruments.com
[divider]Editor’s Note:[/divider]
A version of this article first appeared in the June 2016 print issue of the Drive Magazine.
With the decision made that this would be a show-stopping weekend cruiser, we didn’t feel the need to replace the OEM dashboard with a mint marketplace find. A dash cap from NPD was all we needed to be satisfied on any trip to a local weekend event. The next major decision came with the audio upgrades. We felt we needed to win some awards. Even though the truck has a rear seat from the factory, it’s pretty obvious that no one will ever be back there and there really wasn’t much space for anyone to be comfortable anyway. So, the factory seats were removed and a custom CNC-built wooden speaker box was fabricated to fit perfectly in the back.
These new MOJO 6 ½-inch subwoofers from Memphis Audio will blow you away with the beats they can make, and the new VIV amplifiers can easily produce enough power to handle four of these little subs. We installed a 2200-watt amplifier for the subs and a four-channel amp for the mids and highs, all wired up by a Memphis audio amp install kit that made everything simple and smooth. The complete amplifier and speaker system is receiving signal and being controlled by a Planet Audio Apple CarPlay Receiver.
Finally, we wrap up the interior with a new billet steering wheel from Eddie Motorsports that was a simple swap using the company’s ’88 to ’98 Chevy steering wheel adapter. Follow along as we dig deeper into the details and show you the results of our “Ready Player One” inspired interior. In the next issue, we have one more trick up our sleeves that you may find exciting. Stay tuned!
When we left you last, Stella was finally on the road and ready to shred her new Nitto tires. The engine is complete and in the break-in process. A few hundred miles of fluid movement and dust shaking revealed a couple simple issues that needed to be addressed. Loosening exhaust bolts and new rattle noises always pop up, but nothing that a day on the lift and some turns of a wrench can’t fix.
Once the break-in period is done, we will swap out the transmission fluid with a Syncromesh liquid and she will be ready to daily drive. During that process we took the opportunity to prep and paint our new metal panels. We wanted the truck to look the part, so along with the rumble from the exhaust, a cowl hood is an absolute necessity.
Removing the rear bumper is a must-do modification as well if you’re going for the true sport truck look. The all-metal roll pan from AVS on the Web fits perfect and can be temporarily bolted in while we wait for our turn in the paint booth. Finally, a new tailgate from LMC Truck will replace the beat-up factory piece. With all the new parts painted and installed, we will coat the bed floor with a DIY bedliner kit. This is going to be an amazing truck when it’s all complete, but for now we have some work to do. Stick around and follow along!
[divider]SOURCES[/divider]
Auto Metal Direct
www.autometaldirect.com
Automotive Touchup Paint
www.automotivetouchup.com
AVS on the Web
www.avsontheweb.com
Eddie Motorsports
www.eddiemotorsports.com
LMC Truck
www.lmctruck.com
Optima Batteries
www.optimabatteries.com/en-us
The classic movie, “A Streetcar Named Desire,” was recently selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.” Lately, it seems that ’88-’98 Chevy trucks are quickly being known to have the same qualities in the truck enthusiast world. GMT400 trucks were on every street corner and car show in the ’90s. With massive production numbers and excellent engineering, these Chevy trucks are still pretty easy to come by and available in many different forms, including shortbed, longbed, quad cab and even two different SUV platforms. Oftentimes, the guy who’s buying and restoring these trucks wanted one in his teen years, and now he’s older, generally successful and more financially stable than when he was 16 years old. These factors also drive custom parts manufacturers to focus on making products for the industry icons and get ahead of the popularity curve.
It’s easy to talk the talk and say you’re a fan of this body style, but it’s far more impactful to walk the walk and own one yourself. So, we took the challenge and jumped into the deep end of desire by picking up a running, driving ’95 Chevy C/K truck from the original owner for a smooth $2,000. Cold A/C and a solid cranking 4.3-liter V-6 gave this truck the appeal, but the full gas tank and a fresh oil change showed us that the previous owner still had love for this 20-plus-year-old family member.
To quickly explain the project’s name: “Stella” is a Latin term meaning “star.” The name popped in our heads after we ordered our 22-inch American Racing Nova wheels. The word “Nova” is a female name of Latin origin that has a definition of both “newness” and “of great energy.” It’s also an astronomical term for a star that suddenly increases in brightness, just like this truck’s future. (Plus, Stella was a pretty stellar character in “A Streetcar Named Desire.”) So, with all that in mind, the name Stella just fits, don’t you think?
Over the next few pages, we’re going to take you through the process of giving this truck new life on the same old roads it’s been cruising down since its inception, first starting with a new suspension, upgraded disc brakes and a new set of wheels and tires. That’s only the beginning, but you have to follow along to see the rest. If this truck doesn’t motivate you to go out and start wrenching on your own OBS project, I’m not sure you picked up the right publication. Now let’s get to the good stuff!
To control our fuel delivery system, we chose to go with Edelbrock’s new Pro-Flo 4 electronic fuel injection. The Pro-Flo 4 is not just a replacement for your carburetor. It’s a complete engineered system that provides the ultimate in performance, drivability and quality. This will result in a smoother idle, faster acceleration, better peak power, improved fuel economy and the ability to control detonation, all in the E-Tuner 4 app.
The key to the improved performance is the fuel injector location, which is at the end of the runner on the intake manifold right before the airflow stream enters the combustion chamber. This location provides a more efficient mixture control that’s unaffected by varying intake manifold runner temperatures and length.
Next to be bolted to the block are our Hedman Hedders designed for the SBC 350ci engine. Hedman Hedders began as a one-man shop in 1954. Bob Hedman, founder of Hedman Hedders, sold his highly sought-after exhaust tubes to fellow racers on the salt flats of the Mojave Desert. But what started out as a way to make a few bucks to pay for Bob’s racing hobby quickly turned into the premier header manufacturer for both the racing and street header marketplaces.
Centerforce is the clutch of choice for our project and recommended by American Powertrain. The Centerforce II Clutch Series utilizes a full facing disc with premium friction materials and a pressure plate with centrifugal weights. It offers superb holding power and maximum clutch life, making this clutch ideal for selected street/strip, off-road and towing applications.
• Patented centrifugal weight design
• Patented ball bearing pressure plate
• High quality friction material
• Light pedal effort
• Increased holding capacity
• Smooth engagement
American Powertrain’s Pro-Fit kits for 88-98 Chevy/GMC C1500 OBS GMT400 trucks come in either 5 or 6-speed. There is no need to cut the floor if your truck is already manual since it fits in the factory location. This kit reuses the original cross-member. It’s actually a very easy install!
Benefits Include:
30-50% increase in fuel economy
Low RPM cruising for greatly reduced driver fatigue and an improved highway driving experience.
Reduced engine wear leading to longer engine life
Cooler engine operating temperature
The 88-98 Chevy kit includes
AP Revolution Shifter Mechanism locates shifter that will fit bench or bucket seats
Seamless DOM Driveshaft Assembly that has been race balanced
Solid U-Joints
A Driveshaft Slip Yoke made from Cryogenically hardened steel
Polyurethane Transmission Mount
Greased and pre-packed pilot bearing with stainless rollers
Reverse Light Harness
Electronic Speedometer Conversion
Shifter Knob and all the Hardware and instructions you need.
With the engine fully assembled, Trey can slide the engine into the bay and start prepping the cooling system. We used a set of factory V-8 motor mounts to bolt it to the frame and Mishimoto radiators and electric fans. This is a 6.2-liter (383ci) diesel cooling system that Trey recommended for additional cooling. To make it all work correctly, Trey installed a factory OEM diesel coolant reservoir and made a trick aluminum coolant transfer pipe.
Project Sources
American Powertrain
americanpowertrain.com
American Racing
www.americanracing.com
Autometal Direct
www.autometaldirect.com
Automotive Touchup Paint
www.automotivetouchup.com
AVS on the Web
www.avsontheweb.com
AZ Pro Performance
azproperformance.com
Blueprint Engines
blueprintengines.com
Centerforce Clutch
www.centerforce.com
Classic Industries
www.classicindustries.com
Dakota Digital
www.dakotadigital.com
Dynomax Exhaust
www.dynomax.com
Edelbrock
www.edelbrock.com
Forever Sharp
fssteeringwheels.com
Full Pen Fabrication
www.fullpenfab.com
Hedman Performance Group
www.hedman.com
LMC Truck
www.lmctruck.com
Lokar
www.lokar.com
Mishimoto
www.mishimoto.com
MrTailLight
www.mrtaillight.com
Nitto Tire
www.nittotire.com
Optima Batteries
www.optimabatteries.com/en-us
Overpower Customs
overpowercustoms.com
Red Line Oil
www.redlineoil.com
RideTech Suspension
www.ridetech.com
TMI Interiors
www.tmiproducts.com
Vintage Air
www.vintageair.com
Billet Aluminum Hood Hinges for 1988-98 Chevy C/K Trucks
Fits 88-98 C/K Chevy/GMC Trucks
92-99 Blazer/Jimmy/Suburban/Tahoe Yukon
●High strength, precision billet aluminum construction
●Utilizes sealed bearings & stainless steel nitrogen gas struts (included) for smooth operation
●Bolt-on application for steel, fiberglass, or carbon fiber hoods (specify when ordering)
●Available in raw machined or bright polished finish as well as a variety of Fusioncoat and anodized colors
●Sold in pairs
●Made in the USA
