So-Cal once again teamed with a division of GM to obtain maximum performance from its push truck, but this time it was with the Saturn LSR team. The Vortec 3500 received a custom but very production-ready turbo kit from GM Powertrain. With boost from 9 to 11 psi, the Canyon can put more than 350 hp to the sand with 350 lb-ft of torque ensuring the Canyon never slows down. Prepping the I-5 for that kind of power is heavy-duty equipment, consisting of piston-cooling oil squirters, forged pistons, and a high-strength crankshaft. Wiseco in Mentor, Ohio, performed the engine modifications, and after the engine was blueprinted, the I-5 was shipped back to sunny Southern California.
Speed in triple digits can be a frightening experience without the proper safety equipment. Tackling this issue head-on, So-Cal installed black- and red-leather Recaro racing bucket seats, which were upholstered by Lil' John of Fountain Valley, California, with competition five-point racing DJ harnesses, a full rollcage, and a fire control system. CB radios keep constant communication between the Canyon and the race car, and several of the dash plastics were painted for an extra touch. The gauges also received the custom treatment, thanks to So-Cal logos and chrome trim rings. Interior good looks are nice, but without the proper paint scheme outside, the truck would not be complete.
Addressing the exterior, So-Cal Speed Shop continued its relationship with GMC and designed a paint scheme able to distinguish itself as truly So-Cal-built. Red and white were chosen to represent the heritage of the speed shop, and with the additions of a body side kit, a louvered hood, and a mesh grille, the Canyon was nearly completed.
The only thing left to do was try out the GMC Canyon at Bonneville. Firing up the turbocharged five-cylinder and mashing the throttle sent clouds of salt flying, and the mission to create a modern interpretation of a historical racing legend was accomplished.
Racy MaterialDisplaying its long-standing heritage of racing, So-Cal Speed Shop brought out some of its amazing race cars that remind us of yesteryear. Records were made to be broken and So-Cal Speed Shops has set and broken plenty of records during its tenure of racing. Seen here are the So-Cal Saturn ION Red Line, Ecotech-powered lakester, and GMC tow rig.