C10 Builder's Guide Winter 2024

WHHHHAAAAAAAA?!? WELL I know we say this every year, but how is it already SEMA time again? For reals, this year really seemed to fly right on by… CRAZY! At writing time we’re well into August and the SEMA show builds, booths, products, and companies have already started the mad dash to show off their latest and greatest (us included). This year will make the 20th year that we’ve attended and it truly never gets old. Always something NEW to see and well, it’s Vegas so there’s that. And as tiring as working a trade show like SEMA can be for those of us with booths, it’s always so rewarding to see and meet as many of you as possible—our passionate builders, readers, and classic truck aficionados. SEMA is definitely…

Premium Body Molding Set DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY TO FIT 1973-’80 Chevy GMC C/K shortbed fleetside truck applications, AMD’s top-shelf molding package includes complete upper and lower side moldings, upper and lower tailgate moldings, and all necessary fasteners and hardware required for installation. Fabricated from thick gauge aluminum for enhanced durability and resistance to the elements, these moldings not only look great, but also protect against corrosion and wear. Auto Metal Direct 877-575-3586 www.autometaldirect.com Vinyl Door Panel Set LMC TRUCK’S REPRODUCTION VINYL DOOR PANEL packages for 1967-’72 Chevy and GMC truck/SUV applications feature dielectrically heat-sealed vinyl with a strong ABS plastic backing plate. The scrolling detail surrounding the center horizontal pattern area and the woodgrain insert capture an appealing oldschool aesthetic. LMC’s panel sets are available in six colors to choose from.…

JOSHUA STEELE IS a prominent figure in the custom automotive industry, renowned for his lifelong dedication to crafting exceptional vehicles. His journey spans from competitive drifting circuits to constructing rugged off-road trucks for Nevrslo Motorsports, where he also races trophy trucks. Joshua’s diverse background infuses every project with a unique blend of experience and passion. His latest endeavor focuses on transforming a classic C10 pickup into what he feels is the way it should have been on the showroom floor—a testament to his talent and unwavering dedication to the craft. THE ULTIMATE BARN FIND The story begins with an extraordinary discovery: a 1983 C10 pickup with a storied past. Originally painted red, the truck underwent a unique transformation when the dealership repainted it black upon purchase. After just a year…

TUCKED AWAY in the foothills of North Carolina is an old-school leather company that is still committed to doing things the right way. Apex Leather has called small-town Hudson (population 3,770) home for nearly 25 years. While its facility doesn’t produce leather on the scale it once did, the hides, expertise, and equipment are still in abundant supply and cranking out some of the best in our custom automotive industry. Apex burst onto the scene several years back as it shifted its focus to the custom aftermarket. The leather at Apex—and the people just as much—really made the auto community take notice. While many folks sell leather, a company that still produces it, understands it, and stocks everything on-site is becoming much more rare in this day and age. “These…

EVERY FRIEND group should have a Kyle Fannin in it. He’s a firefighter, he’s a road warrior, he’s C10 Club Maryland’s president, and he’s a “Beaver Believer” (for those wondering—yes, you can pick up the same banner at your local Buc-ee’s if you believe in the cause, too!) Among the garage full of Kyle’s current projects sits “Karen,” his 1986 crew cab longbed complete with a vintage camper that is built to haul. About four days before Lone Star Throwdown ’24, Kyle did what many of us have done in a pre-show manic episode and completely tore her apart. He had no doubts that he’d make it out there. Like I said, he’s a road warrior—a mere 1,500-mile trip from Maryland to Texas is just another Tuesday for Kyle. Karen’s…

WHEN IT COMES TO aftermarket parts for our military charity build known as Sergeant Square, we’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest products to include on this next-level project. This truck has been on an exciting journey of restoration and innovation, and we’re excited to test out the brand-new Gen 5 climate control system from Vintage Air. Vintage Air has once again raised the bar with its Gen 5 climate control systems. Entirely electronically controlled, these systems incorporate several new OEM-quality features, including injection-molded case assemblies, new higher-torque actuator motors, and rubber over-molded blend air doors for increased durability and efficiency. The Gen 5 system incorporates a Super Magnum Evaporator, which features Vintage Air’s largest blower ever. This powerhouse delivers 20% more cubic feet of air per…