Fat Fender Garage located a solid ’50 GMC pickup and Jason and the guys kicked off the project by ordering a brand-new REVO Series chassis from Roadster Shop. The REVO chassis is built with an IFS frontend as well as a rear four-link and was equipped with Ridetech springs, Wilwood spindles and braking components, and power rack-and-pinion steering. Whereas old trucks have undeniable charm and appeal, you’ll never hear anyone raving about factory ride quality, which is why this upgrade was crucial in gaining optimum handling and control and a much lower stance.

Now that Mike’s GMC rode like a dream, the next order of business was to ensure that it started and drove like one, too. To that end, the tired old engine was uprooted to make room for a modern mill to power the ’50. A ’17 6.2L Chevy LT1 crate engine now powers this truck. To make it even more interesting, a few tweaks ensured optimal performance: A SPAL fan and Champion radiator were introduced to keep things cool, and 1 3/4-inch custom headers along and a 2 1/2-inch stainless exhaust system complete with a Borla XR-1 muffler were paired to better the LT1’s breathing ability.

To complement the crate engine perfectly, a new 8L90E eight-speed auto transmission, which GM developed specifically to partner with the LT1, was mated to the motor. General Motors recently introduced this combination as part of their Connect & Cruise powertrain system of factory-matched engine and transmission combos equipped with specially calibrated controllers and harnesses to increase the ease of retrofit installs.

With a fresh performance-driven drivetrain now in place, Noel and the guys at Fat Fender then turned to prepping the GMC’s exterior for paint. The crew applied Mazda Soul Red Crystal, a color that was first used by Mazda on concept cars and only sprayed by hand to ensure its deep and lustrous finish, giving this classic an updated Candyapple Red finish. Mike knew the color’s bright, shining properties well, and successfully predicted it would pair perfectly with his truck’s full-figured exterior.

Original exterior parts were used, where possible, including the grille and mirrors, while the front and rear bumpers and door handles were sourced from LMC Truck, a company that reliably partners with classic truck builders. While making some updates, a set of 18- and 20-inch U.S. Mags Mad Max US354 billet wheels with Nitto tires were bolted up. Furthermore, LED headlights and tails update the GMC’s illumination just enough to give it a modern twist. A custom, wood bed was another timeless addition.

Incorporating the warm wood from the bed on the cab floor was an unexpected interior restyle. Tan leather hides cover the seats, panels, and steering wheel. Bryan Cline of Queen Creek, Arizona, expertly tackled the upholstery job and finished the leatherwork with a mesmerizing diamond-stitch pattern. Dakota Digital gauges now take up residence in the dash, as does a new stereo unit and control panel for the Vintage Air climate system. Mike made sure to request power windows and cruise control to complete this first-rate build.