Up next Customized 2022 Ford Maverick: The Ultimate Mini-Truck Transformation Published on September 26, 2023 Author Melissa Anderson Tags 1963 c-10, 1963 chevrolet truck, 1963 chevy truck, 63 chevrolet, 63 chevrolet pickup, 63 chevy truck, chevrolet 63, chevrolet c-10, custom sleeper cabs, Share article Facebook 0 Twitter 0 Mail 0 A Clean Custom 1963 Chevrolet C-10 | Sleeper ’63 This Chevy Blends the Best of Many Worlds Jeff Breault, an investment advisor out of Kansas, shows that he knows exactly where to spend his time and money through his ’63 Chevrolet C-10. The Chevy truck clearly shows the experience Jeff has behind him, with several vehicles modified and 15 years of skin in the game. Mixing classically clean style with modern performance, it’s impossible not to acknowledge the careful balancing act achieved by his C-10 build. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter On the exterior, the Chevy still hails from humble factory beginnings with its nearly untouched body and iconic blue paint job, complete with detailing along the side and “Chevrolet” emblazoned across the tailgate. Upgrades are instead seen in smaller additions like the Detroit Steel wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes. Even these changes clearly fit the build with their clean lines and bow tie accents. Other additions on the exterior remain superficial, limited to paint touch-ups under the hood as well as new headlights and taillights. KEEPING TRUE TO THE ORIGINAL CAB, THE ’63 C-10 RETAINS A CLASSIC LOOK WHILE SEEING UPGRADES IN THE FULL JL AUDIO SOUND SYSTEM, CUSTOM REDLINE GAUGE WORKS GAUGES AND VINTAGE AIR SETUP. A close look at the interior, with its original upholstery, makes it clear that Jeff has worked hard to keep true to the C-10’s iconic style. Though the cab features upgrades all its own—with a full JL Audio setup, Vintage Air system and custom Redline Gauge Works gauges gracing the dash—the true surprises start with a look under the hood. THE DETROIT STEEL WHEELS ARE CHEVY THEMED ALL THE WAY, WITH THE UNMISTAKABLE BOW TIE LOGO OUT IN FULL FORCE. Perhaps the centerpiece of this ’63 build, the Chevy starts off strong with an LS engine swap putting out 525 hp. A Don Hardy Race Cars camshaft works the LS3 for all it’s worth. A long list of new parts carries this level of performance throughout the build with dual 11-inch cooling fans, Be Cool radiator, Melling oil pump and Edelbrock water pump all in place to keep the C-10 running smoothly. Other additions include a Cloyes timing chain, PowerMaster 140A alternator, PAC-1218X springs, K&N universal air cleaner, Billet Specialties Chevrolet script valve covers and TruTrac black anodized accessory drive system. Even the exhaust setup has been updated with Hooker LS cast-iron exhaust manifolds, custom 3-inch stainless crossover pipe, Vibrant Streetpower muffler and Vibrant Ultra Quiet resonator. THIS CLASSIC TRUCK HIDES A POWERHOUSE OF AN ENGINE, COMPLETE WITH AN LS SWAP THAT PUMPS OUT 525 HP ALONE. To meet that same level of modern performance in the suspension, a Roadster Shop Spec Series Chassis with Wilwood disc brakes give the ’63 a serious foundation while the TruTrac limited-slip differential ensures results where the tires meet the pavement. The Chevy features a 3.89 gear ratio, as well as a triangulated four-bar rear suspension setup and Strange S Series 8-inch rearend. As Jeff himself said, the ’63 Chevy C-10 “has the original feel that a 55-year-old truck should until you hit the gas pedal!” With the goal of creating “a badass truck,” it’s easy to say that this Chevy is the picture of success. Impressive for how well-preserved the factory pieces remain, this truck came to Jeff with 34,000 miles already logged. At first glance, the ’63, with its original paint, body and bench, seems to have earned the name Earl—given by Jeff, no doubt, as a nod to the Chevy’s respectable age of 55 years. Yet a closer look shows that this C-10 has more kick than many new cars on the market, cementing the truck’s status as a sleeper; this powerhouse blends the best of Chevy style and performance. Though the daily driver has only racked up more miles in the years since that first measure, the changes Jeff has made ensure the C-10 still has miles left to go. BUILD SPECS OWNER Jeff Breault 1963 Chevrolet C-10 Wichita, KS ENGINE Work performed by Don Hardy Race Cars and Matt Wolfe of Devlin Rod and Customs Chevrolet LS 376/525, eight-cylinder engine COMP flat-top pistons Melling oil pump Don Hardy 226 camshaft Cloyes timing chain Edelbrock water pump Dual 11-inch cooling fans PowerMaster 140A alternator Be Cool aluminum radiator Polyurethane motor mounts PAC-1218X springs Hooker LS cast-iron exhaust manifolds Custom 3-inch stainless-steel crossover pipe Vibrant Streetpower muffler Vibrant Ultra Quiet resonator Billet Specialties Chevrolet Script valve covers Billet Specialties TruTrac black anodized pulleys K&N Universal air cleaner Stainless-steel 17-gallon gas tank Delco battery 4L70-E Transmission Strange S Series 8-inch rearend TruTrac limited-slip differential 3.89 gear ratio 31-spline custom axles CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Roadster Shop Spec Series Chassis Triangulated four-bar rear suspension Single adjustable coil-overs Wilwood 11-inch cross drilled rear brakes Wilwood Pro spindles Wilwood 13-inch cross drilled front brakes Detroit Speed 1-inch cast-iron master cylinder DSE 9-inch dual diaphragm power booster Roadster Shop brake line package ididit tilt with column shift WHEELS & TIRES 18×8 and 20×9 Detroit Steel Wheels P255/50R18 & P295/45R20 Toyo Proxes ST II Tires BODY & PAINT Work performed by Devlin Rod and Customs Firewall touch-up Satin black paint under the hood Hella E-Code headlights LED taillights INTERIOR & STEREO Work by Ryan James of Devlin Rod and Customs LizardSkin heat and sound Modified stock mat Ssnake Oyl belts Vintage Air Gen IV air conditioning Vintage Air vents Custom Redline Gauge Works gauges American Autowire Highway 22 wiring kit RetroSound Long Beach Stereo with Sirius XM JL Audio 400-watt amplifier JL Audio C2-350X Evolution coaxial speakers JL Audio C2-570X Evolution focal speakers JL Audio ZR800-CW subwoofer FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What specific parts were replaced with new sheet metal? We upgraded several key components with brand-new sheet metal. First, we installed a new steel bed floor. Next, we added fresh bedsides and a front panel for added stability. The wheelwells and tailgate were also replaced to ensure a cohesive look. Finally, we swapped out the fenders, grille, and hood to complete the transformation into a gleaming new fleetside short box. Why was new sheet metal chosen over repairing the original parts? Repairing the original parts would have been a time-consuming task involving extensive work with hammers, dollies, and body filler. Instead, choosing new sheet metal provided a more efficient solution. Using fresh replacement panels for the fenders, grille, and hood not only saved countless hours but also ensured a better fit and finish. Thus, new sheet metal was chosen to streamline the restoration process and achieve superior results. What challenges were encountered during the bodywork phase? Challenges Encountered During the Bodywork Phase Panel Gaps and Straightening Despite starting with mostly new metal, achieving the ideal panel gaps required meticulous adjustments. The alignment process was labor-intensive, necessitating precise cuts, welds, and rework to ensure a uniform appearance. Extensive Body Filler Application To smooth out imperfections and attain an even surface, body filler was essential. This step is critical for a polished finish but demands patience and precision. If you need a detailed guide on this technique, numerous resources are available to help. Time-Consuming Sanding Sanding was a significant hurdle, taking much longer than visuals might suggest. It involved hours upon hours of methodical effort to perfect the truck’s exterior. This tedious process is unavoidable if you aim for a flawless result, and it’s certainly an aspect that cannot be rushed. Unseen Effort and Dust The level of manual labor involved often goes unnoticed. Frequent clean-up was necessary as the workers found themselves enveloped in clouds of dust daily. Persistent effort finally led to a surface ready for painting, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation in bodywork. In summary, the bodywork phase is not a swift or easy task. It requires detailed attention, a variety of skills, and a substantial commitment of time, making the end result all the more rewarding. What considerations were made when choosing the paint for the truck? When selecting the paint for the truck, a few key considerations guided the decision-making process. Practicality and Usability The primary goal was to create a functional and dependable vehicle. A satin charcoal metallic finish under a glossy white top was chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its practical benefits. The flat paint option allows the truck to retain a rugged look, making it less nerve-wracking to use regularly without the fear of constant maintenance. Time and Labor Efficiency Flat paint significantly reduces the time and effort required for bodywork, final finishing, and color sanding. This choice eliminated the need for several hundred extra hours of meticulous preparation, making the project more manageable and efficient. Durability and Maintenance The flat finish offers a highly durable coating, reducing the worry of scratching or damaging the surface during regular use. This resilience means you can handle everyday tasks without the constant fear of ruining the pristine appearance. Aesthetic Appeal Lastly, the visual impact was a major factor. The flat finish enhances the classic lines of a ’67-’72 truck, especially when paired with a two-tone color scheme. The combination of satin charcoal and glossy white creates a striking contrast that enhances the vehicle’s overall look. In summary, the paint choice was influenced by practical considerations, time and labor efficiency, durability, and aesthetics, creating a balance between functionality and visual appeal. What is the timeline for completing the truck before SEMA 2023? Timeline for Completing the Truck Before SEMA 2023 As of today, we have a strict deadline of three weeks to get our truck completed for the SEMA 2023 show. Currently, the truck is disassembled into myriad parts, creating a challenging but exciting project timeline. Here’s a breakdown of our completion plan: Week 1: Assembly and Engine Work Day 1-3: Frame and chassis assembly. Day 4-7: Engine installation, including all wiring and connections. Week 2: Body and Interior Day 8-10: Mounting body panels and exterior components. Day 11-14: Installing interior features like seats, dashboard, and electronics. Week 3: Finishing Touches and Testing Day 15-17: Painting, detailing, and final aesthetic adjustments. Day 18-21: Comprehensive testing to ensure everything runs smoothly before transport to SEMA. With meticulous planning and round-the-clock efforts, we are confident we can meet this ambitious timeline. Keep an eye on our progress as we rev up for SEMA 2023! How did the project team feel about seeing the truck painted for the first time? The project team was overjoyed when they finally saw their previously neglected and weathered C10 truck in a fresh coat of paint. This moment sparked a wave of emotions, mixing nostalgia with a sense of achievement as they reflected on the journey from dilapidation to restoration. Every brush stroke of new color symbolized the hard work and dedication that transformed the truck from its humble beginnings into a revitalized beauty. Why is it important to test-fit sheet metal before final assembly? The Importance of Test-Fitting Sheet Metal Before Final Assembly Test-fitting sheet metal before final assembly is a crucial step in any restoration or custom build. Here are a few key reasons why: Identify Fitment Issues Early: It helps uncover any potential issues with the alignment or fitment of the parts. Spotting problems at this stage allows for adjustments before paint and final assembly, saving time and frustration later. Preview the Final Look: Test-fitting provides an early glimpse of how the finished product will look. This can be incredibly motivating and offers an opportunity to make design adjustments if needed, ensuring the final appearance meets expectations. Avoid Costly Mistakes: By aligning and positioning sheet metal components ahead of time, you minimize the risk of costly errors. Misaligned panels or gaps can lead to significant time and expense in corrections if only discovered during or after final assembly. Improve Overall Quality: Ensuring everything fits perfectly before committing to the final build enhances the overall quality of the project. This thoroughness translates into a smoother, more polished final product, reflecting a higher standard of craftsmanship. Streamline the Assembly Process: A successful test-fit means the final assembly will go more smoothly. With prior knowledge of how everything fits together, the process becomes more efficient, reducing the likelihood of encountering unexpected hurdles. In summary, test-fitting sheet metal is an essential practice that ensures a high-quality build, prevents costly mistakes, and ultimately guarantees a better-finished product. What was the process of test-fitting the new sheet metal parts? The Process of Test-Fitting the New Sheet Metal Parts Before diving into the bodywork, it was crucial to ensure that every piece of new sheet metal was a perfect fit. We dedicated a full day in the shop, meticulously aligning and test-fitting each component to catch any potential issues early. Steps Taken During the Test-Fitting: Alignment Check: We started with an overall alignment check, matching each part to its designated spot on the truck. This step is essential to ensure that no significant adjustments are needed later. Fine-Tuning: Using clamps and temporary fasteners, we fine-tuned the positioning. Adjustments were made to account for any minor deviations in the metalwork or mounting points. Compatibility Assessment: Each piece of sheet metal was inspected for compatibility with adjacent parts. This helps in identifying any areas where the metal might need trimming or additional shaping. Marking Adjustments: Any necessary modifications were marked using a scribe or marker. Whether it was a slight shift or a more substantial trim, noting these changes aids in the precise final fitment. Mock Assembly: Finally, we performed a mock assembly of the truck’s body panels. This step is the first real glimpse of what the finished vehicle will look like, helping to ensure that aesthetics and functionality align with our expectations. The outcome was promising—no major issues, and the truck looked incredible even at this preliminary stage. This process is an essential practice in any restoration or customization project, allowing us to visualize the end result and make any necessary corrections before committing to the final assembly. How was body filler used in the bodywork process? Preparation: Before body filler could be applied, even new metal panels required meticulous work to perfect the gaps and ensure the surfaces were ready for paint. This entailed a mix of slicing, dicing, and welding to achieve the correct panel alignment. Application: Body filler was essential to achieving a flawlessly straight finish. The process started by applying the filler over the prepared metal surfaces. It was spread evenly with a spreader, filling any dents, gaps, or imperfections in the panels. Once applied, it hardened fairly quickly, enabling further refinement. Shaping and Sanding: The next crucial step involved shaping the hardened filler. This meant extensive sanding. Using various grits of sandpaper, the filler was sanded down to blend seamlessly with the surrounding metal. The goal was to create a smooth, even surface that looked and felt straight. This stage required patience and precision. Repetition: Achieving a perfect finish often necessitated multiple rounds of application and sanding. Each layer of filler corrected smaller imperfections, progressively refining the surface. The repetitive process ensured that the panels were impeccably straight and ready for the next phase of the bodywork. Conclusion Body filler played a pivotal role in transforming imperfect panels into sleek, straight surfaces ready for paint. The labor-intensive process of applying, sanding, and reapplying the filler was crucial in ensuring a high-quality finish. Despite the seemingly straightforward steps, it demanded attention to detail and a significant investment of time. What were the color choices for the truck’s final paint job? For the truck’s final paint job, we opted for a striking yet practical combination. The primary color is a custom-mixed satin charcoal metallic, which provides a bold yet understated look. This pairs perfectly with a gleaming gloss white top, creating a classic two-tone effect that enhances the truck’s vintage lines. Why Satin Charcoal Metallic? Low Maintenance: The satin finish allowed us to bypass extensive bodywork, final finishing, and color sanding. This saves time and effort without sacrificing durability. Practical Use: It’s a tough coating that isn’t too precious, which means we don’t need to worry every time we handle tools near the truck. Aesthetic Appeal: The satin charcoal highlights the design elements of the ’67-’72 truck models, adding a modern touch while keeping a retro vibe. Why Gloss White Top? Contrast and Depth: The gloss white top offers a beautiful contrast to the satin charcoal, drawing attention to the truck’s elegant lines. Timeless and Clean: Gloss white is a timeless choice that gives the truck a crisp, clean look, making it stand out without looking overwhelming. In conclusion, the custom satin charcoal metallic and gloss white top were chosen for their aesthetic appeal, practicality, and low maintenance, perfectly balancing form and function. Why was a flat paint finish chosen over a gloss finish? Why Opt for a Flat Paint Finish Over a Gloss Finish? Choosing a flat paint finish over a gloss finish can have several practical and aesthetic benefits, particularly when it comes to maintaining and using the vehicle. Here’s why a flat paint finish might be the better option: Practical Benefits Reduced Bodywork and Finishing Time Flat paint allows for a more forgiving application, meaning there is less need for extensive bodywork, final finishing, and color sanding. This can save hundreds of hours in prep work. Durability A flat finish is less likely to show scratches and minor dings, making it a durable choice for a vehicle that’s meant to be driven regularly rather than shown off in a showroom. Maintenance Ease With a less glossy finish, you don’t have to worry about every small imperfection. It’s easier to maintain without the constant fear of damaging an immaculate surface. Aesthetic Appeal Unique Look The flat paint offers a unique, understated look that many find appealing. It can give the vehicle a rugged, no-nonsense character that’s both functional and stylish. Less Reflection A flat finish reduces glare and reflections, providing a more consistent visual appearance in different lighting conditions. In summary, opting for a flat paint finish can be more practical for regular use, easier to maintain, and it delivers a unique aesthetic that’s both durable and stylish. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value functionality and character over showroom shine. How was the original truck box condition, and what was done to replace it? Condition and Replacement of the Original Truck Box The original truck box was in poor condition, suffering from extensive damage and wear. Years of use had left the sheet metal bashed, dented, and nearly unrecognizable. The truck had endured a hard life, with previous owners seemingly hitting everything in sight. Such deterioration is hardly surprising given the truck’s budget-friendly $500 price tag. To address this, a complete overhaul was undertaken. Instead of trying to salvage the heavily damaged original box, a decision was made to replace it entirely with new parts. The project began by securing a fresh steel bed floor, new bedsides, a front panel, wheel wells, and a tailgate. Steps Taken to Replace the Truck Box Acquiring Parts: The necessary new components were sourced, ensuring they matched the truck’s specifications. Assembly: With all parts on hand, the assembly process began, transforming the old, battered truck bed into a brand new, gleaming short box. In no time, the truck was equipped with a durable and visually appealing new box, restoring both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. What steps were taken to restore the sheet metal on the 1968 C10 truck? Steps to Restore the Sheet Metal on the 1968 C10 Truck Initial Assessment and PreparationAfter restoring the cab, the next focus was on the damaged sheet metal essential to transform the truck back to its original form. The original truck bed was missing, and the remaining metal parts were significantly dented and worn out. Instead of overhauling these old parts, new sheet metal was sourced to replace the damaged components. Installing the Truck BedGiven the extensive wear and tear on the original bed, a new steel bed floor, side panels, front panel, wheel wells, and tailgate were assembled. The process of building a new, clean truck bed was both efficient and satisfying, resulting in a pristine fleetside short box. Addressing Front-End MetalworkThe front fenders and doors were riddled with dents, and rather than repair them, new panels were selected. The grille and hood were also replaced. However, some original parts that were still in good condition, like the core support and radio-delete cowl panel, were retained. Test Fitting New ComponentsBefore proceeding to the bodywork, a day was dedicated to test-fitting all the new panels. This critical step ensured there were no significant alignment or fitment issues and provided an exciting preview of the truck’s potential final look. Bodywork and Panel AlignmentWith all the metalwork in place, attention turned to bodywork. Although most of the sheet metal was new, adjustments were necessary to achieve perfect panel gaps and alignment. This stage involved slicing, trimming, and welding where needed to ensure everything was flush. Applying Body Filler and SandingAchieving perfectly straight panels required applying body filler and lots of sanding. Despite the new metal, significant effort was needed to prepare the truck for painting. This step is time-consuming and labor-intensive but crucial for a high-quality finish. Final PaintingOnce the bodywork was completed and the panels were perfectly aligned, the truck was ready for paint. The painting process was meticulously carried out by skilled professionals, resulting in a polished and impressive final product. Through these methodical steps, the 1968 C10 truck was restored to its former glory with precision and care.