CHEETO

In the world of classic truck restoration, few stories capture the essence of family bonding and automotive passion quite like the journey of the orange satin masterpiece known as “Cheeto.” Fifteen years ago, a chance encounter in San Francisco led to the acquisition of this iconic Chevy C10. Little did they know that their son, Joey, then just a 10-year-old, would embark on a lifelong love affair with the world of restoring classic trucks. Join us as we dive into the heartwarming story of Cheeto and how it brought this family closer together, introduced them to a vibrant community, and set the stage for their adventures on the road.

It all began when the protagonist, whose passion for trucks was as strong as ever, stumbled upon the a ‘63 C10. With no rust and a straight body, it was a blank canvas awaiting transformation. The captivating orange and gray satin color caught their eye, and after much contemplation, they decided to keep the vibrant orange paint while giving the roof a contrasting cream hue. Little did they know that this initial decision would set the tone for Cheeto’s unique identity and leave an indelible mark on their lives.

From the moment Cheeto became a part of their family, it became clear that this project was more than just a restoration. It was an opportunity for the family to bond and create lasting memories. Joey, fueled by excitement, wasted no time and dove headfirst into restoring the truck right in their driveway. Their home became a hub of activity as father and son joined forces to breathe new life into Cheeto.

With each passing day, Cheeto’s presence grew stronger, becoming more than just a project – it became a symbol of their shared enthusiasm. As the family delved deeper into the car show scene, they realized the need for a truck capable of embarking on long road trips and traveling to out-of-state shows. In 2020, they embarked on the latest build, tearing down the truck to its core. The transformation included a new motor and transmission, an upgraded suspension system, a custom stereo, fresh upholstery, and a striking new paint job. However, the pièce de résistance came in the form of the Cheeto tailgate, a one-of-a-kind feature that became the centerpiece of their truck’s identity.

As Cheeto continued to evolve, the family’s passion for classic trucks grew stronger. In their quest for knowledge and camaraderie, they found the C10 Club, a tight-knit community of like-minded enthusiasts. Joining the North Bay chapter and building relationships with fellow C10 enthusiasts, they became part of the C10 family. Whether attending events or venturing out of state, the C10 family’s warm embrace made every journey feel like a homecoming.

The story of Cheeto is more than just a tale of a meticulously restored truck; it’s a testament to the enduring power of family, passion, and the joy of classic truck restoration. From its humble beginnings in San Francisco to becoming a cherished member of the C10 Club, Cheeto has not only brought this family closer together but has also connected them with a vibrant community of enthusiasts. As they continue to embark on road trips and attend car shows, Cheeto’s captivating presence serves as a reminder of the everlasting bonds forged through a shared love for Chevy C10s.