Just in case you haven't noticed, early model trucks have become the hottest customs on the present show-'n'-cruise scene. Ten years ago, old truck iron was for those gray-haired Uncle Bill types. In those days, these old dinosaurs didn't seem to draw much attention from the custom crowd. But, as time went by, they began to enjoy more of the limelight. The cool thing about this category of customs is that they are being shared by old and young enthusiasts alike.
What makes classic trucks so attractive is the initial investment to build a bitchin' ride. This is unlike purchasing a new '03 or '04 truck or SUV that you drive off the lot for some $30-60,000. Then, to customize it, you need to spend another $40,000 for a wild custom paint scheme, either lowering or lifting the suspension, wheels and tires, engine performance, a computer chip, an air intake, a supercharger, headers, exhaust, interior, and audio/video components. Before you know it, you have approximately $100,000 invested. Meanwhile, you can be cruising in a cool early model custom truck for a fraction of the cost of a new high-end custom truck or SUV.
After discovering a potential early model project vehicle, whether out in an abandon field, garage, or shop, or as somebody's daily driver, the main concern is that all the body parts are there, such as the molding, door handles, glass, grille, and other components. Some missing pieces can be very costly later - if you can find them, that is. The condition of the cab, doors, fenders, and hood are also important. If the bed is thrashed, it can be replaced easier than the other major components. Almost all custom trucks today have gone through a complete suspension rebuild or replacement. Most early model trucks featured straight-axle front leaf spring suspension with drum brakes. The rear suspension consisted of the same simple leaf spring rear suspension with drum brakes. Usually, classic truck owners would replace the solid-axle leaf spring frontend with a '70s Camaro front clip or aftermarket IFS (independent front suspension). To update the braking performance, the standard drum brakes are tossed for a set of front and rear disc brakes with a much more efficient booster and master cylinder. When building a custom classic truck, the two main contributors to its overall appearance are the stance and the wheel and tire combo. Airbag suspension systems are the answer to obtaining that slammed look, with an adjustable ride height. We are seeing more late-model fuel-injected crate engines being dropped in between the framerails, with a set of headers and an exhaust system that will produce a throaty pitch. Of course, there are still those who prefer building their own from the crank up, producing a zillion horsepower and enough torque to rip the face off a gorilla. Today's custom interiors don't resemble anything of yesterday. Interior kits are now available from aftermarket manufacturers that feature door panels, kick panels, and even center consoles. Most seats are completely stripped, then the frames are sandblasted and powdercoated. The seat receives new denser foam that is shaped to fit the contour of the driver and passenger, covered in high-quality leather or a leather/suede combination, with a matching headliner, door panels, kick panels, and plush carpeting. Some folks invest in a newly manufactured complete seat, which just bolts in place. The truck's theme, whether retro, custom, pro-street, or stock, will dictate the gauge selection. Today's audio systems are endless and change every week, so it's hard to keep up with the latest audio and DVD technology.
We must remember when constructing an early model custom truck that half the fun of building it is having the satisfaction of driving it. Sure, trailer queens are beautiful, but they might as well stay on the trailer as a float in a parade. If you can't slip behind the steering wheel and get some serious enjoyable seat time with a buddy or babe, then what's the purpose?