GREEN LIGHT

Nick Davis has always been a classic car enthusiast, a passion deeply rooted in his family. So, when his brother offered him a bare-frame 1967 C10 project truck, Nick seized the chance for a memorable father-son bonding experience. With three decades of experience restoring vehicles—including a 1959 Apache, a 1969 Apache, and a ‘65 Chevelle—he was ready to take on this ambitious project. The goal was clear: transform this rusty relic into a show-stopping masterpiece that they could cherish for years.

The adventure kicked off with a focus on the frame, which needed some serious TLC to hit the road again. Nick and his son dove in, upgrading the suspension with state-of-the-art aftermarket tubular control arms and sway bar enhancements from CPP Parts. They swapped out the old, worn suspension for a set of Viking coilovers to ensure a smooth ride. When it was time to notch the frame, Nick called in his brother Jeremy, who showed up with his trusty saw and welder. Together, they crafted a new 12-bolt rear end equipped with 3.73 gears and an Eaton limited-slip differential, connected to durable Moser shortened axles.

With the frame in top-notch condition, they shifted gears to the cab. The stock floor was tossed in favor of a one-piece replacement, meticulously welded into place. They replaced the rockers and cab corners with fresh steel panels, and gave the firewall a thorough cleaning and smoothing to set the stage for the next major transformation.

Nick opted for a GenV LT GM 5.3L engine paired with a GM 6L80E transmission, bringing serious modern muscle to the C10. A custom 2-1/2” exhaust system was fabricated to ensure optimal airflow, topped off with Flowmaster mufflers that deliver a distinctive growl. The fusion of modern power and classic styling was coming together beautifully.

For bodywork and assembly, Nick entrusted the project to Ryan James at RJ’s Kustomwerx. Ryan’s crew incorporated modern upgrades like LED headlights with integrated blinkers and cleverly frenched side markers. They relocated the gas filler to a discreet access door behind the driver’s taillight. The body was then given an Olive Green base coat, with the lower half finished in a House of Kolor Snow White mix. To top it all off, Nick chose 20” COY C70 wheels, striking the perfect balance of clean and classic.

Once the bodywork was complete, the truck headed to Dale England at Plum Crazy Kustom Upholstery. Dale crafted custom door panels, visors, and installed plush new carpet. Nick opted for a Snowden seat for comfort, and a hidden Vintage Air system was added to keep the cab cool. For those long drives, the truck was outfitted with a Custom Auto Sound head unit, amplifier, and JL Audio 6×9 coaxial speakers, all seamlessly integrated by RJ’s Kustomwerx.

With the truck finally complete, Nick loaded it onto a trailer and made his way to the 2024 C10 Nationals in Fort Worth, Texas. To his delight, his meticulously restored 1967 C10 snagged the prestigious 67-69 C10 Truck of the Year award. What began as a father-son project blossomed into a triumphant celebration of their hard work, shared passion, and unbreakable bond.

Nick’s 1967 C10 isn’t just a truck; it’s a testament to dedication, craftsmanship, and the love that went into every bolt, weld, and stitch. The accolade at the C10 Nationals is just the beginning of many more adventures and accolades in store for Nick and his son, cruising in their beautifully transformed classic ride.