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February 2025
Preview Issue
Make It Yours. Make It Lokar. Modern Performance. Classic Style. Endless Options.
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digital illustration of how to use a shifter
selection of steering wheels
selection of driving pedals
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Series Restored by Lokar
digital illustration of how to use a shifter
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selection of steering wheels
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selection of driving pedals
Series Restored by Lokar
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InTheGarageMedia.com
Assembled steel transmission tunnel with shifter cutout and Cleco pins vintage car interior
Award-winning custom truck team holding “World’s Most Beautiful Truck” check and trophy at 2024 Grand National Truck Show
Assembled steel transmission tunnel with shifter cutout and Cleco pins vintage car interior
02 Award-winning custom truck team holding “World’s Most Beautiful Truck” check and trophy at 2024 Grand National Truck Show
Spot welding replacement panel onto 1966 Chevy truck door using MIG welder
1959 Chevy Apache rear view custom CHEVROLET tailgate chrome bumper stepside design polished show truck
1969 Chevy C10 side profile featuring five-spoke custom wheels and sleek black finish
1956 Ford F-100 chrome grille white paint lowered stance and custom headlights on open road
Hot Rod
CLASSIC TRUCK PERFORMANCE VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 54 • 2025
CTP February 2025 cover
On The Cover:
John Jackson captured the 3+3 that never was … till now: Rodney Harris’ 1979 Sqaurebody by Rutterz Rodz. Inset: Tim Sutton’s magnificent shots of the Rushtons’ 1959 Apache wonderfully de-patina’d by Hot Rods & Custom Stuff can be seen starting on page 42.
Classic Truck Performance ISSN 2692-2347 (print) ISSN 2692-2355 (online) Issue 54 is published monthly by In the Garage Media, Inc., 370 E. Orangethorpe Avenue, Placentia, CA 92870-6502. Application to mail at periodicals prices is pending at Placentia, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Classic Truck Performance c/o In the Garage Media, Inc., 1350 E. Chapman Ave #6550, Fullerton, CA 92834-6550 or email ITGM, Inc. at subscription@inthegaragemedia.com. Copyright (c) 2025 IN THE GARAGE MEDIA, INC. Printed in the USA. The Classic Truck Performance trademark is a registered trademark of In The Garage Media, Inc.
CPP Classic Performance Products, Inc.: Steering, Brakes, Suspension
suspension adjustable sway bar kits and coil-over suspension conversion systems
complete big brake kits
efi tank systems
steering premium adjustable 5-way tilt steering columns
LS engine swaps
CPP truck, built for the street! proven on the track!
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*Prices subject to change without notice, please inquire. Also, please note that kits and prices may vary between certain applications.
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ROB FORTIER
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Rob Fortier
BY ROB FORTIER
Our Community
Y

ou know, the one (main) thing that differentiates the classic truck community now from back when I piloted Classic Trucks magazine in the early 2000s is the community. Simply put, the people are different … and that’s not being said in a negative light whatsoever.

What is Google’s definition of community? “A group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society; a body of persons of common and especially professional interests scattered through a larger society. (Still amazed how I never say “Webster’s” when translating anymore … kinda sad.)

I first became (officially) immersed into the classic truck world back in the mid 1990s—back when then-editor of Truckin’ Classic Trucks Bill Turner assigned me to do a Saginaw four-speed install on my 1954 Chevy with “good” old Patrick’s Antique. Back then, I was fairly young and not as well received as I was in the custom car world, as the classic truck community at the time was comprised mostly of hard-core F-100 and early Chevy enthusiasts. Nothing like it is today. But it didn’t take long for me to fit in, even though, thanks to my other McMullen cohort, Courtney Hallowell, I had a heavy “modern” influence on all the truck stuff I did: airbags, wheels larger than 15 inches, and so on! But the people—the community—were a great, closeknit group, which I loved to be a part of. Again, nothing like it is today.

CTP  Parts Dept.

InTheGarageMedia.com
Keyless Tilt Steering Column Adapter Kit, ExtReme Street Chassis for 1955-1987 GM Trucks and 1953-1956 Ford F-100s, and AMD’s All-New 1988-1991 OBS Premium Dash Panel Assembly
1. Keyless Tilt Steering Column Adapter Kit
Want to go keyless in your Squarebody? All American Billet’s new kit (SCA-7387CT) will allow the installation of a Classic Performance Products’ keyless tilt steering column into your 1973-1987 Chevy/GMC Squarebody. All American Billet also offers the complete kit with CPP tilt column (DC-6772-SB1.5) to outfit your truck with the cleanest column in town!

For more info, contact All American Billet/All American Chassis at (844) 245-5381 or visit allamericanbillet.com.

2. ExtReme Street Chassis for 1955-1987 GM Trucks and 1953-1956 Ford F-100s
Speedtech Performance is excited to announce the launch of its new ExtReme Street Chassis Series, a top-of-the-line solution for classic trucks. Originally the ExtReme Street chassis was released for the 1967-1972 C10 platform, but after much success in that product launch earlier this year, Speedtech Performance is bringing their chassis solution to GM trucks from 1955-1987 and 1953-1956 Ford F-100s. While Pro Touring has focused on high-performance handling for muscle cars, their latest innovation shifts the spotlight to everyday driveability without compromising on style or comfort. By seamlessly integrating modern suspension technology with the timeless style of classic vehicles, this chassis provides enhanced comfort, control, and reliability for real-world driving—ideal for both daily driving and long road trips. The ExtReme Street Chassis is designed for those who appreciate the iconic looks of classic trucks but seek the performance and comfort of modern driving. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, this chassis ensures a smooth, confident ride.

For more info, contact Speedtech Performance at (435) 628-4300 or visit speedtechperformance.com.

3. AMD’s All-New 1988-1991 OBS Premium Dash Panel Assembly
Auto Metal Direct (AMD) is thrilled to announce the launch of their all-new Premium Dash Panel Assembly for the 1988-1991 Chevy GMC CK OBS trucks. This premium replacement dash, designed for the GMT400 platform, including the C1500, C2500, C3500, K1500, K2500, and K3500 models, is now available (PN 465-4088). Engineered with all-new AMD tooling, this Dash Panel Assembly is the perfect solution for those looking to restore the interior of their classic truck to its original condition. This assembly has been developed using state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, ensuring that the dash panel meets the highest standards of quality and durability. The plastic shell is securely attached to an untreated metal frame with rivets and screws, replicating the original factory construction for an authentic restoration. One of the key features of the AMD Dash Panel Assembly is its resilience against the elements. Crafted with advanced materials, this dash panel is designed to resist shrinking and cracking over time, common issues that often plague older dashboards. Furthermore, the dash panel includes a UV inhibitor in its black finish, offering robust protection against sun damage. This ensures that the dash maintains its appearance and structural integrity even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. This dash panel assembly is designed to integrate seamlessly with all factory dash components, ensuring a hassle-free installation. The untreated metal frame not only provides structural integrity but also serves as a grounding point for the factory harness, just like the original. This ensures that there will be no interference with your vehicle’s electrical system. Additionally, the assembly incorporates factory air ducting, maintaining the functionality of your vehicle’s heating and cooling systems.

For more info, contact Auto Metal Direct by visiting autometaldirect.com.

CTP Feature
InTheGarageMedia.com
The Crew Chief
The Crew Chief
Rutterz Rodz Builds a 1979 Squarebody 3+3 Crew Cab … Just Like it Oughta Have Been!
by ROB ForTIERImages by NotStock Photography
“The idea of this build was to bring to life a truck that looked as if it should have been built by GM,” Mike Rutter, owner of Rutterz Rodz in Bristol, Tennessee, tells us. “The color schemes were thoughtfully chosen to reflect the packages that GM offered in 1979. The ‘Crew Chief’ idea came from thinking of how the truck could have been used back in the day … We envisioned maybe this truck would have been seen working on a NASCAR track carrying a crew to a crash for cleanup.
CTP Tech
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Chevy C10 truck on wood risers, showcasing a matte black finish and open hood for customization
1. There aren’t many trucks that are cooler than a lowered Chevy C10 or a GMC C15; Detroit Speed & Engineering (DSE) has a number of ways to do just that.
There’s More Than One Way to Go Low
Gettin’ the Drop on a C10/C15
BY Ron Ceridono
T

here’s no question that the 1967-1972 Chevrolet C10 and GMC C15 pickups are highly sought after by Classic Truck Performance readers. Also extremely popular are the 1973-1987 Squarebody Chevy and GMC trucks. But while there’s a difference in styling of the two series of trucks, the modifications made to them often have the same goals: lower ride height and improved handling. Both these goals can be met with suspension kits from Detroit Speed & Engineering (DSE).

DSE offers two distinct front suspension packages: Speed Kits and SpeedMAX. Entry-level Speed Kits are available in three configurations: Speed Kit 1, 2, and 3. All Speed Kits lower the front of your truck 4-1/2 inches, while handling and steering performance is improved with each level of kit. Each component of the Speed Kits is also sold separately to allow users to fit the build of their truck.

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black custom 1956 Ford F-100 displayed with hood open, showcasing detailed engine bay at Grand National Truck Show
2024 World's Most Beautiful Truck Contender flag prominently displayed on the Grand National Truck Show floor
award-winning custom truck team holding “World’s Most Beautiful Truck” check and trophy at 2024 Grand National Truck Show

2024 O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Truck Show

By ROB FORTIERImages BY THE AUTHOR

W

hile Labor Day typically signals the end of summer, looks like the middle of September now means one thing: the Grand National Truck Show (GNTS) at the Fairplex in Pomona.

Straight on the heels of my Nashville getaway the weekend prior, it was off to my backyard retreat in nearby L.A. county for four days. Granted, the event’s only two days (Saturday to Sunday), but seeing as I not only participate in the judging process for World’s Most Beautiful Truck (WMBT), which occurs on Thursday, but also had the honor of displaying my 1948 Chevy (for the first time in public … ever), which needed to be set up in our booth Friday … well, you do the math!

CTP logoFeature star Feature

InTheGarageMedia.com

Hard In The Paint typography
Gerry & Chris Rushton’s 1959 Chevy Apache
BY ROB FORTIERImages BY Tim Sutton
W

hen the Rushtons first brought their 1959 Chevrolet Apache to Randy Clark at Hot Rods & Custom Stuff (HRCS) in Escondido, California, it had an amazing original patina—with the Bollong & Son Furniture Co. lettering still prominent on the doors! HRCS painter Andy Meeh, of all people, tried his best to convince owners Gerry and Chris to retain that OG charm … but to no avail; they were set on giving the Chevy an all-new look on life, and that meant one of Meeh’s finest candy paintjobs!

I’ve always had a fascination for custom automotive/motorcycle paint, and without question Meeh is one of the best in the business. That said, I figured why not pick his brain about his career passion and the Rushton’s non-traditional candy (Kandy Garnet, to be specific) paintjob.

CTP Tech
InTheGarageMedia.com
Custom transmission tunnel fabrication steel sheet metal vintage car floor pan installation handmade project
The McGlynn Studebaker typography
Building a Custom Firewall and Floor
BY Ron CovellIMAGES BY Joe McGlynn
W

e looked at the chassis of Joe McGlynn’s Studebaker pickup project back in the Dec. ’23 issue of Classic Truck Performance. This time we’ll show the great work he has done on the firewall, floor, hood hinges, and some other details. Although McGlynn is a hobbyist who works from his home shop, he has invested in some good-quality tools that speed up the work. He recently purchased a power hammer, which he put to excellent use making the highly complex transmission cover, shaped from 16-gauge steel. Material that thick is a challenge to work with hand tools.

A two-piece pattern for the firewall was made from chipboard, which was then transferred to 16-gauge sheetmetal. The edges of these panels were shaped by hammering over forms made from MDF, which produce a smooth and accurate contour while maintaining the flatness of the panels.

McGlynn designed his own hood hinges with CAD, which incorporate an elegant four-link mechanism. He sent his digital files to a laser-cutting service, and they produced the complex parts quickly and efficiently. The hinges mount to the firewall, which he reinforced with 1/4-inch steel plates.

Feature
InTheGarageMedia.com
Dove Gray typography
Terron Carver’s 1956 F-100 Went From Worn Out to Wow
By Brandon BurrellImages By THE AUTHOR
W

hen it comes to building cool vehicles, Terron “TC” Carver from Clermont, Georgia, the owner of TC’s Place, is no stranger. TC has had his hands in a ton of over-the-top vehicles for the past several decades. He started building hot rods and custom trucks around 1990. Before that, he was a fabricator for the Bill Elliott NASCAR Race Team. So, making metal into rolling art that can perform as well as it looks is second nature to him. With multiple builds under his belt for not only himself but also customers, TC knew his latest project would have to be something he could enjoy for years to come while having enough detail in it to stand out in a sea of custom trucks. For this, TC picked up a 1956 Ford F-100 that had seen better days and needed a ton of TLC. This truck was started as a budget build, but still had to be something with a “wow” factor, so plans had to be set from early in the project.

1956 Ford F-100 chrome grille white paint lowered stance and custom headlights on open road
CTP Tech
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1966 Chevy truck door restoration primed and black panel workshop
Project #Backpay typography
The AMD 1966 Chevy C10 Gets Skinned … The Doors, That Is
BY Jason ChandlerIMAGES BY THE AUTHOR
W

elcome back to our recurring tech article series in Classic Truck Performance! We’re excited to dive into the ongoing transformation of Project #Backpay, our 1966 Chevy C10 truck that’s been undergoing some serious restoration work. If you’ve been following along, you already know that with a detailed, step-by-step approach these repairs are entirely doable at home. Last time, we walked you through the AMD big back window conversion. This time, we’re shifting our focus to door repair.

Though the cab looked solid at first glance, a closer inspection revealed that it needed significant attention. We took the truck to Rockford Custom Paint & Body in Athens, Georgia, where Rockford Smith handled the installation. While the doors are generally in good shape, the lower sections have taken a hit from water damage, thanks to worn-out seals and neglected drain holes. These trucks, primarily used for work, often had maintenance as a secondary priority. Fortunately, AMD has all the parts you need to restore these doors to their former glory, with a bit of effort and expertise.

Feature
InTheGarageMedia.com
Well Rounded typography
Cameron Smith’s 1968 Chevy C10
BY TODD RYDEN IMAGES BY MATT LANKFORD
B

uilding and driving a vintage muscle car or truck can sometimes leave one conflicted. Classic vehicles are just so cool to see driving down the road or jumping out from the crowd of commuters. However, they may not live up to your expectations when it comes to ease of driving, comfort, or handling.

1969 Chevy C10 drivers side classic Chevrolet emblem and chrome trim
What's Inside Your Ride typography
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Visit us at TMIproducts.com typography
red truck driving and two black leather seats
close up of black and brother leather seats
close up of gray and brown leather seats
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red truck driving and two black leather seats
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close up of black and brother leather seats
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close up of gray and brown leather seats
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Ultra Simple typography
EFI 101: Installing FiTech’s New Ultra Port Throttle Body System
BY Jason ScudellariImages by The Author
S

ome of you may be asking, why switch over to EFI? To me, it was an easy choice after doing a little research with our friends over at FiTech Fuel Injection in Riverside, California. Right from the get-go they suggested their new Ultra Port SBC unit for the small-block in my (old) 1949 Chevy three-window.

I’ve owned this 1949 Chevy truck since I was 18 years old. Not to date myself, but that’s been 30-plus years. Originally, the style I was shooting toward was a 1990s street rod. That quickly shifted as I got into the rockabilly scene. There was just something about the music, the style, and the down-and-dirty feel that I fell in love with. Now I had my sights on building a traditional hot rod. After quite some years under my belt driving it around, it was time to hand off the keys to my wife, Randi. While I’d already updated the chassis/brakes, there was one more “modern” thing left for me to do before that happened: make the EFI switch.

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Thanks for reading our February 2025 preview issue!