FARM TRUCK

Jimmy Davis’ experience building custom vehicles took a serious turn years ago (16 to be exact), back when he started out as a professional car audio installer. While he does still enjoy that same line of work today, it has grown into more of a passion for a trade that he has perfected and has since used to branch into other types of automotive craftsmanship throughout the years. JD Glassworks is the name of the business that Jimmy and his wife LaDawn have lovingly operated for nearly two decades, and while mobile audio is one of their most in demand services, they can also tackle other big jobs such as wiring and electrical along with interior design and upholstery as well. 

Customers and builders turn to Jimmy because of his established knowledge and expertise, which definitely comes in handy when he is able to focus his attention on projects of his own. Whatever he feels that is out of his wheelhouse or best left to other fabricators, all he has to do is consult his contact list of talented friends and craftsmen and go from there. While personal builds don’t pop up all too often since things can get pretty hectic around the shop, Jimmy jumped at the chance to invest some time into a special truck that has been in his stable for a while now “I bought this ’74 Squarebody from my father-in-law about 12 years ago”, he says. “The truck has been in good overall shape since I’ve had it, but it just had a dated look like it was still stuck in the 80’s.” While there’s certainly nothing wrong with a vintage pickup truck from that era, the time had finally come to modernize the Chevy by pulling its form and function into today’s standards while still allowing its classic character to shine through naturally. 

With a plan of action for the build set in place, Jimmy then began assembling a supporting cast of characters from the aforementioned contact book who could contribute and help turn his old Squarebody into something truly special. Jason Hill of Hill’s Hot Rods was the first name on Jimmy’s list to call. The two have teamed up in the past, and have achieved outstanding results, and seeing as they are practically neighbors within the Lubbock, TX city limits, another collaboration was most definitely in the stars. 

The first phase of the Chevy’s transformation was to get its stance dialed in. To get this right, Jason and his team planned on modifying the factory frame with quality components from Chris Alston’s Chassisworks in the way of 2-inch drop spindles and a 4-link setup for the rear. A full air ride system comprised of Ridetech ‘bags and air management system, Monroe shocks and dual Viair compressors was assembled to allow Jimmy to adjust the height of his Squarebody with the quickness. Addressing the truck’s braking power was next on the agenda, and the pairing of CPP big brake kits on both ends along with an upgraded master cylinder from Wilwood would guarantee reliable stopping power at any speed. To capitalize on the brand-new chassis setup, Jimmy then selected a righteous wheel and tire package – staggered 20×8 and 20×15 Intro Westcoast XLR wheels with BFG g-Force rubber up front and wide Mickey Thompson meats in the rear, which were destined for a good roasting.  

To help with the ceremonial burning of rubber, Jimmy reached out to Texas Speed & Performance across the state in Georgetown, TX to secure an ’07 Chevy LS engine with a select grouping of go-fast fixins to turn out a respectably streetable 450HP. From the Holley Hi-Ram intake and Billet Specialties air cleaner, to the set of 2.5-inch headers, custom 3-inch exhaust system and Flowmaster muffler, the 5.3L was soon firing at top performance. A locally sourced ’07 GM 4L60E automatic transmission, Moser 9-inch Ford rearend, and custom driveshaft from Driveline Express were then lined up to put this Jimmy truck back in motion again. 

The goal for the Squarebody’s exterior was ultimately geared to keep it looking clean without any unnecessary distractions. Jason Hill and team once again stepped up by shaving the drip rails, stake pockets holes and tailgate handle from the Chevy’s surface before prepping the entirety of the cab and bed for a painted finish. A stark shade of PPG white paint was selected and applied for the ultimate of cleanliness before fresh factory replacement headlights, tails, side mirrors, door handles, glass, body molding and front and rear chrome bumpers from LMC truck completed the outwardly refresh. The sterile results fit the bill down to the very last detail, but Jimmy had plans to contrast his truck’s bright white appearance with something special inside the cab. 

With the build coming down to the homestretch, Jimmy found himself on familiar turf when shopping for the right seating and upholstery options, along with everything else required to properly outfit his Chevy’s interior. A Snowden bench seat combined with brick colored vinyl from Road Wire proved to be a winning combination that inspired the remainder of the in-cab overhaul. Modified stock door panels and dash were treated with matching upholstery, and a similarly colored ACC loop carpet laid down the foundation for an absolutely killer cockpit. 

With top shelf additions in the form of Dakota Digital VHX gauges, a custom wrapped Intro steering wheel, and a full Vintage Air A/C system, the cab was quickly on its way to completion, but Jimmy just had to wire up a complete audio system before he could consider it done. “Interior work and audio/video is what I do, so I had already been picturing just how this particular portion of the project would go”, he admits. Kicker Audio components are exclusively featured throughout the cab space from the radio, to each and every one of the speakers, three carefully chosen amplifiers and the subwoofer stealthily positioned behind the seat. This interior is the epitome of all resumes showcasing exactly what JD Glassworks is capable of. The fit, finish and overall execution display the mark of true craftsmanship. 

In just two short years, Jimmy was finally finished with a truck that had been in his possession for a dozen years, and with an even longer history within the family. It has since been nicknamed the Farm Truck, but you’ll likely never see it getting down too dirty. The build was mainly done to have a good time, but to also to be a showpiece that Jimmy could utilize to promote his shop. Since its completion, he has had the opportunity to take it to a few big shows, topped by a SEMA 2022 appearance in Kicker’s booth, naturally. “So far this truck has been a great building experience”, Jimmy states. “I’ve had the chance to meet some awesome people along the way, and I’ve had a blast doing it.”