Whether it is for show or...
Whether it is for show or function, our latest project vehicle looks outstandingly cool.
There are many reasons to own a lifted four-wheel-drive truck. Some are for function, and some are for looks. In our case, we like to think we have the best of both worlds: a totally functional and super-cool-looking, lifted four-wheel-drive Chevy 2500HD Duramax diesel truck that was featured with a color-matching Carrera Sport Cat boat in issue No. 6. Unlike other past show trucks Truckin' has built over the years, most of which have been two-wheel-drive, this truck was going to serve a two-fold purpose. First, it had to be able to get up any and all of the steepest launch ramps around Southern California, and second, it had to be able to not get stuck in any mountain snow when hitting the local ski slopes.
We also thought at the time, when diesel fuel was cheap, the added cost of the Duramax engine would provide better fuel economy over a gasoline-equipped once the truck was lifted. Plus, the added torque of the diesel would make pulling the steepest of highways that much easier. So, with that in mind, we set out to build a suspension that would perform superbly but also look cool enough to pull into a truck show. We succeeded on both fronts. First, we had to determine whose suspension kit would be suitable and up to the challenge. Immediately, one company came to mind: California SuperTrucks (CST) in San Bernardino, California. Known for its sterling reputation of creating superb-riding and handling lifted trucks, the choice really became an easy one. To further complement the CST suspension kit, we received a set of Deaver Springs for the back end per CST's recommendation.
Once the kit was acquired in its raw metal form, we sent it over to Primo Powdercoating in Huntington Beach, California, and had the crew apply a deep clearcoated and glossy maroon finish to the bare metal suspension parts since they would eventually complement the exterior paint scheme. For installation of our kit, we knew immediately who to turn to, Off Road Unlimited (ORU) in Burbank, California. To round out our suspension, we enlisted the aid of Bilstein Shock Absorbers for a complete set of dual front and rear 7100-Series Reservoir shock absorbers. Finishing everything off was a set of 20x10-inch Weld Racing EVO Velociti 8 wheels mated to a set of Toyo Open Country A/T 325/60R20 tires.
Follow along as we highlight the CST lift expertly handled by the crew at ORU. This company specializes in all things: lifts, truly custom one-off suspension systems for four-wheel-drive vehicles, hydraulic crossover steering, custom shock hoops, and traction bars. ORU has mastered the detail work needed to complement a superbly designed suspension system for our latest project vehicle.
When our '04 Chevy 2500HD...
When our '04 Chevy 2500HD Silverado arrived at ORU, it was completely bone-stock as you can see.
A product shot of the complete...
A product shot of the complete CST 6-inch lift kit that will easily clear a 37-inch tire. Prior to ORU's installation, the kit was powdercoated bright maroon by Primo Powdercoating. The CST kit is engineered to provide great durability and a factory-like ride. It comes complete with all the necessary drop-down brackets including the company's unique one-piece subframe cradle. This includes strut bar supports, supported upper control arm mounts, and dual shock mount brackets.
While the CST kit will clear...
While the CST kit will clear 37-inch tires, we elected to run Toyo's smaller 35-inch tires: the Open Country A/T size 325/60R20 fit with Weld Racing EVO Velociti 8 wheels. These wheels and tires are a nice balance of form and function and will not howl too loudly on the freeway, something quite common from a true mud-terrain tire.