Feature
Images by Tim Suttonack when I was briefly in-between magazine gigs (2012-ish), through some mutual friends (Tim Sutton being one of them), I met Del Uschenko, aka Delmo, when he was working alongside some rather well-known hot rod builders in L.A. It had been some years since I was editor of Classic Trucks magazine, so when I was introduced to his “style” of truck building (I’ll call it modern-vintage with a twist!), I quickly identified what was to become the next wave of classic trucks with a whole new generation of enthusiasts—and little did I know then, Del and Sutton would be the two key figures who helped launch this latest venture: Classic Truck Performance!
That first Delmo 4×4 would ultimately be the 1959 Chevrolet Apache, a stunning Napco-inspired build that many of you have undoubtedly seen on the socials and/or another publication—it’s what I expected … and more. A couple-few “standard” Delmo (low) trucks would follow before Del produced Jeff Eckberg’s 1969 F-250, and while Sutton was sent back out to Prescott on assignment to shoot the pair for this issue’s cover and subsequent feature, I sat down with Del and threw a few questions his way regarding his “elevated” situation.
I was building prewar hot rods in Burbank (California) when I built a truck for myself in 2010. My style of building took off on the 1967-72 forums and ever since I’ve been in this truck gig. Love it; love the people.
2. By the time I met you, you’d already achieved that “Delmo” style, and shortly thereafter began a product line to reflect that style so others could emulate. What was it that eventually led you to move away from that and gravitate toward the Delmo 4×4?
The Delmo brand was from the demand for this vintage styling, and the truck scene was growing fast. It is still thriving in the background, but we thought we would try our luck with the 4×4 scene. Nice change of pace, I suppose.
3. Delmo 4×4 launched right on the cusp of this latest “classic off-road” movement. What are your thoughts on the timing of everything, and where do you see your portion of it going moving forward?
The timing was great for the 4x4s, the problem is because we are a small outfit there were plenty of big-money shops right behind that could really push the production. As always, we stay in our lane and focus on quality.
4. In the last year or so, I’ve seen you refocus on the “traditional Delmo” builds. Are you going to try to balance both, or focus more on one or the other?
My main focus moving forward will be on product development for the website. We will always have cool stuff on the go but will be very picky on the ones we choose to do. Mostly past clients and good friends.
5. Best experience with Tim Sutton?!
Every time I get to hang with [Sutton] it’s a great experience. Eating tacos or scouting a spot, as long as that ass crack is out, we good!
To me, these are the ultimate “classic” play toys—they just don’t get much better than this!