2005 Chevy Silverado | Bagged & Body-dropped

Wes bought this 2005 Chevy Silverado here from a fellow Negative Camber member, and even though there was already a lot done to the truck, he still had a plan in mind to custom tailor the truck to meet his own personal style.

The Silverado was in damn good condition as-is, but Wes believed that it needed some tweaks here and there to finish it off for good.    

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“A buddy by the name of Doug Hanks from our South Carolina chapter sold the truck to me,” Wes says. “It was already painted brown and stock floored and on 26-inch Racelines. Everybody knew it as the ‘brother’s truck’ since Doug’s brother Dustin also owned it for a bit.”

The Silverado was in damn good condition as-is, but Wes believed that it needed some tweaks here and there to finish it off for good.

“I wanted to do it my way, with some very specific things I wanted to change,” he says. “I first started with the wheels.”

Sticking with 26-inch sized hoops, Wes swapped out the old Racelines for a set of Intro Twisted Rally wheels—complete with Lexani LX-Twenty rubber.

“Looking at this truck, and back to my old Nissan, it’s funny how we used to think that 17s were huge,” Wes says. “Now, 30-inch wheels are where it’s at, but at the moment 26s are just fine for me. It’s interesting to look at how much has changed since then.”

Next, Wes was interested in pulling the tinted glass for clear before hopping on into the interior for a total overhaul, which really has become one of the 2005 Chevy Silverado highlighted features. Matt Reynolds of Charm City Upholstery and Interior out of Baltimore absolutely radicalized the Silverado’s interior space. Contrasting shades of brown leather skins were brought together to create a truly VIP experience within the cab. The seats are as plush as can be, and the one-off center console fabricated by Chris Rawlins at Exotic Auto Trends houses the air-ride controls, cup holders, charging dock and handy storage as well. To get the dash and all other plastic parts and pieces looking just as good as the upholstery work, Wes recruited Eric Foelber at Big Dog Customs to sand it all smooth and paint the surfaces to match. Toss in an Intro Twisted steering wheel and a full audio system featuring premium Kicker and JL components, and Wes was soon cruising with a show-worthy interior package.

“I have always tried to do things the right way, not a lot of overkill,” Wes states. “I like a classy build, but I also like to enjoy my trucks as much as possible. Even though my Silverado was trailered to a far-away show, it was built to drive low and fast at 80 mph a half-inch off the ground. Auto Extremes sees to that, and Robert Robinson and his crew really know how to build a functional full-custom vehicle.”

Even though Wes no longer owns this 2005 Chevy Silverado, the experience gave him a lot great memories and allowed him to work with some very talented, well-respected folks in the industry.

“It just got to the point where I wasn’t driving the truck anymore due to being afraid of causing serious damage from taking it out,” Wes says. “It sucks it got to that point, but I think a lot of custom owners get stuck in this zone quite often. Fortunately, a great guy who is petitioning for NC Arizona purchased the truck, and he is currently driving the crap out of it, and that makes me happy. This truck deserves to be driven and driven as often as possible.

“This time around, a good friend of mine, John Jackson, took time out of his schedule to shoot the Silverado while I still had it,” Wes adds. “The late, great Courtney ‘Tito’ Hallowell shot my Hardbody for Mini Truckin’ back in the day, and a great friendship had sprouted from that experience. Both guys have garnered a lot of respect for the way they see a vehicle through a camera lens, and I’m honored to have their photo credits to both of these trucks of mine.”

Wes does have another project currently in the works, a white 2015 Sierra that affectionately goes by the name “Snoopy” around the Frisbee residence.

“Since my daughter Emerie has been born, she has taken a cue from her mom Trish’s love of ‘The Peanuts,’”, Wes says. “She called my blue C10 Lucy, and this brown Silverado was known as Charlie Brown, naturally. I’ve learned that these trucks come and go, some quicker than others, but family is forever. Shaun Cantrell, thank you for always being my road dog. Thanks to all of my brothers and sisters in Negative Camber; I love you all. Again, a big thank you to John Jackson for taking the time to show his skill at a small country church on an October evening.”

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TRUCK SPECS

 Owner 

Wes Frisbee
2005 Chevy Silverado
Etowah, NC
Negative Camber 

Engine

• Factory 2005 Chevy Silverado 5.3L V-8
• Texas Speed intake manifold
• Black Widow 2-inch exhaust system
• 4L60E transmission w/ custom trans mount by Auto Extremes, Covington, GA
• XS Power 12v battery

Chassis 

• Shop: Robert Robinson @ Auto Extremes
• ¾ frame w/ stock floor body drop
• Dominator 2500 (front) and 1600 (rear) ‘bags
• SMC valves
• KYB shocks
• Little Shop engine-driven compressors
• Ekstensive Metal Woks front suspension kit
• Rear Texas two-link setup

Wheels, Tires & Brakes 

• 26-inch Intro Twisted Rally wheels
• 305-30-26 Lexani LX-Twenty tires
• 14-inch slotted rotors w/ six-piston calipers

Exterior 

• Shop: Auto Extremes
• Matrix Jagermeister candy base and clear paint
• Paintwork by Robert Robinson
• GM HD grille and hood
• One-off, modified stock front bumper
• Shaved gas door, tailgate handle and smooth roll pan

Interior 

• Charm City Upholstery and Interiors, Matt Reynolds, Baltimore
• Factory seats covered in brown- and sand-colored leather upholstery
• Intro Twisted Rally steering wheel
• Kicker and JL Audio stereo components
• Interior smoothed and painted by Eric Foelber @ Big Dog Customs
• Stereo and custom console by Chris Rawlins @ Exotic Auto Trends

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the advantages of using airbags and step notches in a body drop project?

The Advantages of Using Airbags and Step Notches in a Body Drop Project

When undertaking a body drop project, two key modifications can significantly enhance both performance and aesthetics: airbags and step notches.

Airbags:

1. Adjustable Ride Height: Airbags allow for easy adjustments to the vehicle’s ride height. With the push of a button, you can raise or lower your truck to suit different driving conditions or show off your unique style at a car meet.
2. Improved Comfort: Unlike traditional suspension systems, airbags offer a smoother ride by providing better shock absorption. This leads to a more comfortable driving experience, especially on uneven terrain.
3. Versatility: Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or cruising low to the ground, airbags adapt to varying weight and conditions, giving you the best of both worlds.

Step Notches:

1. Increased Clearance: A step notch is a modification to the vehicle’s frame that provides additional clearance for the axle. This is crucial for achieving a lower stance without compromising the integrity of the frame.
2. Enhanced Aesthetics: By incorporating a step notch, you can achieve a cleaner, more streamlined look. This is particularly important for those aiming for a show-quality finish.
3. Extended Suspension Travel: Step notches allow for greater suspension travel, which means your vehicle can comfortably handle a wider range of road conditions and driving scenarios.

Summing Up

Both airbags and step notches offer substantial benefits in a body drop project. From enhancing ride comfort and versatility with airbags to achieving a lower, cleaner stance with step notches, these modifications are essential for anyone serious about creating a standout custom vehicle.

 

How do you ensure that the driveline tunnel accommodates the new cab position after a body drop?

Certainly! Here’s your rewritten article answering the question:

How do you ensure that the driveline tunnel accommodates the new cab position after a body drop?

To ensure the driveline tunnel accommodates the new cab position after a body drop, the tunnel is elevated. This adjustment allows the driveshaft sufficient room for movement when the suspension is raised and lowered. By raising the driveline tunnel, the cab can be securely repositioned on the chassis without hindering the driveshaft’s functionality. This careful design consideration maintains the proper alignment and operation of critical components.

 

What is the impact of a body drop on the functionality of a truck’s suspension system?

Understanding the Impact of a Body Drop on a Truck’s Suspension System

A body drop can significantly affect your truck’s suspension system and overall functionality. Here’s a detailed look at how different methods of body drops can influence your driving experience.

Traditional Body Drop

1. Cab Space Reduction:
   • Headroom and Legroom: Traditional body drops reduce the amount of headroom and legroom inside the truck’s cab. This not only makes driving less comfortable but can also limit the space available for taller passengers.
   • Bed Space: Similar constraints apply to the truck bed, which sees a reduction in useful space.
2. Driveshaft Movement:
   • Driveline Tunnel: As the cab is lowered, the driveline tunnel is adjusted upward. This ensures that the driveshaft has sufficient room to move, even when the suspension system is highly active.

Stock Floor Body Drop

1. Preserved Floor Integrity:
   • Unlike the traditional method, a stock floor body drop retains a larger portion of the floor. This results in a more comfortable driving experience, as the structural integrity of the cab remains largely intact.
2. Comfort and Functionality:
   • Suspension and Driveline: The preserved integrity of the floor also means that the interaction between the driveshaft and suspension system remains smoother. There is less drastic modification needed, leading to more predictable and stable suspension behavior.

Conclusion

Both traditional and stock floor body drops offer unique impacts on a truck’s suspension system. While traditional body drops can compromise comfort and space, they do allow for a low profile and sleek look. On the other hand, stock floor body drops seek to balance aesthetics with maintained comfort and functionality. Understanding these impacts can help you make a more informed decision when modifying your truck.

 

How can the interior paneling be preserved during a body drop?

How to Preserve Interior Paneling During a Body Drop

Performing a body drop on your vehicle often raises concerns about ensuring the interior paneling remains intact. Fortunately, there are techniques that can help you maintain your cabin’s original look without extensive modifications.

1. Precision Cutting: Measure and cut only what’s necessary from the chassis. This minimizes the impact on interior features.
2. Custom Mounts and Brackets: Utilize custom mounts and brackets designed for your vehicle model. Companies like Air Lift Performance and AccuAir offer bespoke solutions that allow the body to lower without interfering with interior components.
3. Minimal Invasive Methods: Opt for less invasive body drop methods. For example, a “stock floor” body drop might be preferable as it often requires fewer alterations to interior panels compared to a “traditional” body drop.
4. Modular Interior Panels: Use modular interior panels that can be easily removed and replaced. Brands such as LMC Truck provide panels designed with flexibility in mind.
5. Reinforcement and Padding: After performing the body drop, reinforce and pad areas where the interior paneling connects. This ensures a snug fit and helps maintain the interior’s appearance.

By leveraging these methods, you can achieve a body drop while preserving the integrity and aesthetics of your interior paneling.

 

What preparatory steps should be taken before starting a body drop project?

Preparing for a Body Drop: Essential Steps

Before diving into the intricate and demanding process of a body drop, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork properly. Here are the preparatory steps you need to take to ensure a seamless project:

1. Assess Your Suspension System

Ensure your truck is equipped with an adjustable suspension system that allows it to lay its frame rails flat on the pavement. This step is vital; the flatter your truck sits initially, the less drastic your body drop will need to be.

2. Gather Essential Tools and Equipment

Prepare the necessary tools for the job. You’ll need:

• A MIG welder
• Tape measure
• Plasma cutter or Sawzall
• Basic hand tools

Ensure all tools are in good working condition before starting the project.

3. Plan and Measure

Carefully plan out your project. Measure the required drop to achieve the desired stance. Precision is key here; inaccurate measurements can lead to uneven drops and additional complications.

4. Safety Precautions

Given the intense nature of body dropping, safety can’t be overlooked. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Ensure you have a well-ventilated work area and follow proper safety protocols for welding and cutting.

5. Vehicle Disassembly

Before any cutting begins, disassemble your truck’s bed and cab. This process involves removing bolts, unscrewing panels, and systematically taking apart the vehicle to expose the frame rails. Keep all parts organized and labeled to make reassembly smoother.

6. Commit to the Process

Understand the commitment required for a body drop. Once you begin cutting and welding, reversing the process is challenging and time-consuming. Make sure you’re committed to seeing the project through to completion.

By following these preparatory steps, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a successful body drop. Remember, attention to detail and thorough preparation are crucial to transforming your truck and achieving that custom, low-profile look.

 

What are the visual and practical benefits of a stock floor body drop over a traditional body drop?

Visual and Practical Benefits of a Stock Floor Body Drop Over a Traditional Body Drop

When customizing a truck, many enthusiasts aim for that sleek, low-to-the-ground look. Traditional body drops often come to mind, but there’s a compelling alternative: the stock floor body drop. This method offers both visual appeal and practical advantages that are hard to ignore.

Visual Benefits

1. Seamless Entry: Unlike traditional body drops, which often result in a noticeable step up into the cab, a stock floor body drop keeps the floor relatively intact. This means when you open the doors, you won’t see that unsightly step-up, giving your ride a cleaner and more streamlined appearance.
2. Lower Stance: By modifying the cab mounts and sectioning the framerails, the cab sits lower on the chassis. This gives your truck that desired lowered stance without compromising its structural integrity.

Practical Benefits

1. Comfortable Interior: One of the standout advantages is interior comfort. Since the stock floor body drop preserves much of the original floor, it ensures a more comfortable driving experience. You won’t feel cramped or compromised, which is often the case with traditional body drops where significant portions of the floor are cut away.
2. Driveline Accommodation: The process involves raising the driveline tunnel, which accommodates the driveshaft’s movement when the suspension adjusts. This modification helps maintain the functionality of your truck while still achieving that lower profile.
3. Ease of Modification: For those who might be wary of extensive modifications, the stock floor body drop is less invasive compared to traditional methods. This approach requires fewer drastic changes to the vehicle’s structure, making it an appealing option for those new to customization.

Conclusion

A stock floor body drop offers a harmonized blend of aesthetics and practicality. It provides a seamless and attractive look without the intrusive modifications of traditional body drops, ensuring a more comfortable and functional driving experience.

 

How can you modify the bed floor to match the cab level after a body drop?

How to Level the Bed Floor with the Cab After a Body Drop

If you’re looking to match the bed floor level with the cab after performing a body drop, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Raise the Bed Floor:
   • Begin by raising the bed floor by about 6 inches. This adjustment is essential to bring the bed to an optimal height.
2. Add Spacers:
   • Insert 3-1/2-inch spacers between the bed floor and the frame. This ensures the raised bed floor is securely placed at a higher level.
3. Secure the Bed:
   • Bolt the modified bed floor back onto the frame. Ensure all bolts are tightened properly to maintain stability.

By following these steps, the bed floor will align seamlessly with the cab, and there’s no need to cut any holes in the floor for the step notch in the frame rails. This not only provides a cleaner look but also simplifies the modification process.

 

What specific steps and modifications are involved in a combination channel/stock floor body drop?

How to Perform a Combination Channel/Stock Floor Body Drop on a Fullsize Chevy

Performing a combination channel/stock floor body drop on a fullsize Chevy requires several specific steps and modifications to achieve a lowered stance while maintaining functionality. Here’s a detailed guide on what you need to do:

1. Preparing the Cab Mounts:
   • Identify the Gap: For 2000-and-later fullsize Chevy pickups, there is a notable gap between the floor and the framerails.
   • Lower the Cab Mounts: You can lower the cab mounts by approximately 1-7/8 inches without needing to alter the framerails.
2. Modifying the Cab Floor:
   • Channeling the Floor: Channel four small sections of the cab floor by about 3/4 inch. This allows the cab to settle back onto the newly lowered cab mounts.
   • Reposition the Cab Mounts: Lower the cab mounts an additional 2-1/2 inches to position the cab correctly.
3. Maintaining Interior Integrity:
   • Interior Panels: Ensure all interior paneling fits back into place without significant modifications. Beneath the carpet, the changes to the floor should be barely noticeable.
4. Adjusting the Bed Floor:
   • Raise the Bed Floor: Elevate the bed floor by 6 inches. This adjustment ensures the bed aligns seamlessly with the cab.
   • Use Spacers: Install the bed back on the frame using 3-1/2-inch spacers. This prevents the need for cutting holes for the step notch in the framerails.

Key Points to Remember:

• Minimal Interior Disruption: Despite the extensive modifications, the vehicle’s interior remains largely unaffected, providing a clean finish.
• Avoiding Major Frame Alterations: The main advantage is not having to modify the framerails themselves, simplifying the process.

These steps outline the crucial modifications needed to perform a combination channel/stock floor body drop effectively on a fullsize Chevy. The process ensures a dramatic drop without compromising the vehicle’s structural integrity or interior aesthetics.

 

What are the historical origins of body-dropping vehicles?

The Historical Origins of Body-Dropping Vehicles

Body-dropping vehicles trace their roots back to decades ago with the inventive hot rod enthusiasts. These pioneers devised a method to lower their car bodies over the framerails by adjusting the sections of the floor directly above these framerails. By lowering the body mounts, the car body could sit several inches lower than its original stock height.

Fast forward to the early 1990s, and the mini-trucker community took this concept even further. They dramatically altered their trucks by severing the entire floor of the truck cab from the rocker panels, rear cab wall, and firewall. After raising the floor several inches, they welded it back into place permanently. This aggressive modification, which significantly lowered the vehicle’s stance, became known as a “body drop,” a term that mini-truckers proudly adopted and made their own.

 

What tools and skills are necessary to perform a body drop?

Tools and Skills Necessary to Perform a Body Drop

Performing a body drop isn’t for everyone. It demands a certain skill set and a toolbox stocked with essential gear. Here’s what you need to know:

Essential Tools

• MIG Welder: This tool is crucial for making precise welds.
• Hand Tools: A variety of common hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers will be necessary.
• Tape Measure: Precision is key, so a reliable tape measure is indispensable.
• Safety Gear: Don’t forget gloves, safety glasses, and a welding helmet to protect yourself during the process.

Required Skills

• Welding Proficiency: You should be comfortable using a MIG welder.
• Mechanical Aptitude: A good grasp of mechanical systems and the ability to follow detailed instructions are essential.
• Common Sense and Patience: This task requires attention to detail and a methodical approach.

If you are confident in your welding abilities and have a knack for using hand tools, you’re in a good position to take on this project. Just ensure you follow instructions carefully and prioritize safety.

 

How does a traditional body drop affect the interior space of a truck?

How a Traditional Body Drop Affects the Interior Space of a Truck

A traditional body drop significantly impacts the interior space of your truck, primarily by reducing both headroom and legroom within the cab. This modification lowers the truck’s body closer to the frame, thus cutting into the vertical space that passengers enjoy.

Impact on the Cab

• Headroom:Lowering the body decreases the distance from the seat to the roof, making it less comfortable for taller drivers and passengers.
• Legroom:Similarly, the reduced height can compromise leg space, which might result in a cramped seating position.

Impact on the Cargo Bed

The same issue applies to the truck bed:

• Depth Reduction:If you utilize a tonneau cover, you’ll find that the depth of the cargo area diminishes significantly after a body drop. This reduction can hinder your ability to fully load the truck bed with gear and equipment, as the usable vertical space is notably lessened.

Ultimately, while a traditional body drop can enhance your truck’s aesthetic appeal, it comes with trade-offs in overall interior comfort and cargo capacity.

 

What are the main challenges and considerations when performing a body drop?

Main Challenges and Considerations When Performing a Body Drop

Understanding the Commitment

Performing a body drop on your truck is not for the faint-hearted. This modification demands a total commitment since reversing it is incredibly difficult. Before you start, it’s crucial to recognize that this isn’t a job for those wary of warranties or lacking mechanical skills.

Preparation and Tools

You’ll need to be handy with a MIG welder and have a good selection of hand tools. Common sense, precision, and a tape measure are your best friends here. If you’re not confident in your abilities, consider seeking professional assistance to avoid costly mistakes.

Impact on Comfort and Usability

One of the biggest considerations is the impact on your vehicle’s comfort and usability. A traditional body drop will reduce the headroom and legroom inside the cab, making it less comfortable to drive. The bed’s cargo depth will also be significantly lowered. For those who use a tonneau cover, this can drastically reduce storage capacity.

Structural Modifications

When performing a body drop, the driveline tunnel must be raised. This modification ensures that the driveshaft can move freely when the suspension is adjusted. It’s a crucial step to avoid future mechanical issues and should be done with meticulous precision.

Comparing Traditional Body Drops to Stock Floor Body Drops

A traditional body drop often leads to uncomfortable driving conditions due to reduced interior space. Additionally, there’s an unattractive step up into the cab, visible when the doors are open.

In contrast, a stock floor body drop maintains a significant portion of the floor, enhancing comfort. This method doesn’t involve the unsightly step, offering a cleaner look when the doors are open. Thus, a stock floor body drop could be a better choice for those prioritizing comfort and aesthetics.

Final Thoughts

In sum, a body drop is a challenging but rewarding project. It requires a blend of mechanical aptitude, careful planning, and an understanding of its impact on vehicle comfort and usability. If these considerations align with your goals, performing a body drop could be the perfect modification for your truck.

 

What’s the Difference Between a Traditional Body Drop and a Stock Floor Body Drop?

When customizing trucks, enthusiasts often aim to lower the vehicle’s body for that sleek, low-riding look. Two common methods to achieve this are the traditional body drop and the stock floor body drop.

Traditional Body Drop

A traditional body drop involves modifying the truck’s entire floor to lower the body. Here’s how it works:

1. Extensive Floor Modification: The entire floor is cut and raised, requiring substantial welding and fabrication.
2. Step into the Cab: This process typically results in an elevated step to enter the cab, which is obvious when doors are open.
3. Interior Space: The comprehensive floor alteration often reduces the interior space and can make driving less comfortable.

Though effective in achieving a dramatically lowered stance, this approach demands significant work on the truck’s structural integrity.

Stock Floor Body Drop

On the other hand, a stock floor body drop offers a different approach with distinct benefits:

• Selective Modifications: Instead of altering the entire floor, only specific sections are modified. This involves lowering the cab mounts and sectioning the framerails.
• Raised Driveline Tunnel: The driveline tunnel is raised to provide clearance for the driveshaft as the suspension moves.
• Improved Comfort: Since much of the original floor remains unchanged, the truck retains more of its original interior space, enhancing comfort.
• Aesthetic Advantage: There’s no unsightly step into the cab, creating a cleaner look.

In essence, a stock floor body drop combines a lowered stance with better preservation of interior comfort and aesthetics.

Summary

• Traditional Body Drop: Extensive floor modification, less interior space, noticeable step into the cab.
• Stock Floor Body Drop: Selective modifications, raised driveline tunnel, better comfort, cleaner entry.

Ultimately, the choice between these methods depends on the balance between desired truck height and interior comfort.

 

Why would someone want to perform a body drop on their truck?

Why Consider a Body Drop for Your Truck?

A body drop, also known as channeling, isn’t just another upgrade; it’s the pinnacle of custom truck modification. But why would someone go through the effort and expense to perform this extensive procedure? Here are some compelling reasons:

Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal

• Extreme Low Profile: A body drop allows your truck to sit incredibly low, achieving that coveted “slammed” look that’s impossible with just an adjustable suspension system.
• Custom Look: The modification significantly alters the truck’s appearance, making it stand out in any crowd. It’s all about tucking those wheels and lowering the cab and bed over the framerails.

Enhanced Performance

• Improved Center of Gravity: Lowering the overall height of your truck can enhance handling and stability, especially while taking sharp turns at higher speeds.
• Aero Dynamics: A lower profile can also potentially improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle.

Personal Satisfaction

• Craftsmanship: Performing a body drop requires a deep level of skill and craftsmanship. The process involves disassembling your truck, cutting out the floor, and welding it all back together. Successfully completing this modification is a badge of honor for any truck enthusiast.
• Unique Project: It turns your vehicle into a unique project, reflecting your personal style and dedication to custom modifications.

Community and Resale Value

• Show Appeal: Trucks with body drops are show-stoppers at any car show or meet, often attracting attention and accolades from fellow enthusiasts.
• Investment: A well-executed body drop can increase the resale value of your truck, especially among collectors and other custom truck aficionados.

Steps and Considerations

Before diving into a body drop, consider the following:

1. Disassembly: You’ll need to meticulously take apart parts of your truck, so ensure you have the necessary tools and space.
2. Cutting and Welding: This modification isn’t for the faint-hearted; proficiency in cutting and welding is essential.
3. Time and Cost: Be prepared for the time investment and potential costs involved, as this is one of the more labor-intensive modifications you can perform.

Conclusion

A body drop is more than a simple customization; it’s an art form that offers unparalleled aesthetic and performance benefits. For those dedicated to creating the ultimate custom truck, this modification is the definitive answer.

 

What is a Body Drop on a Truck?

A body drop on a truck, often referred to as “body-dropping,” is an advanced modification technique in custom truck building. This process involves lowering the truck’s body over the frame to achieve a significantly lower stance, beyond what standard suspension adjustments can offer.

Key Steps in a Body Drop

1. Disassembly:The first step is to nearly completely disassemble your truck. This includes removing the bed, cab, and other components.
2. Floor Modification:The truck’s existing floor is cut out to allow the body to sit lower over the frame. This includes modifications to both the bed and cab areas.
3. Welding:After lowering the body over the frame, extensive welding is required to reattach the modified sections. This ensures structural integrity despite the modifications.

Why Opt for a Body Drop?

• Ultimate Customization:Body dropping your truck is the pinnacle of custom truck modifications. It creates a low, aggressive stance that standard adjustable suspensions can’t match.
• Visual Impact:This modification often results in the truck’s rims and lugnuts being more prominently tucked, offering a unique and aesthetically pleasing look.

Considerations

While executing a body drop, it’s crucial to have a clear plan and precise measurements. This isn’t a task for beginners; it requires mechanical knowledge and welding expertise. The transformation, though complex, delivers a truly custom and impressive finish to your truck.

 

How do you achieve a clean and comfortable body drop on a full-size Chevy truck?

How to Achieve a Clean and Comfortable Body Drop on a Full-Size Chevy Truck

Dropping the cab of a full-size Chevy truck for a sleek, low-riding look doesn’t have to compromise comfort. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Understand the Method: Utilize a combination of channel and stock floor body drop techniques. This method leverages the gap between the floor and frame rails found in 2000-and-later full-size Chevy pickups.
2. Lowering the Cab Mounts: Start by lowering the cab mounts by 1-7/8 inches. This adjustment can be done without altering the frame rails, maintaining structural integrity.
3. Modifying the Cab Floor:
   • Channel four small sections of the cab floor by 3/4 inch. This modification ensures the cab sits back down properly onto the newly adjusted cab mounts.
   • Lower the cab mounts by an additional 2-1/2 inches to achieve the desired drop.
4. Reassemble the Interior: One of the major advantages of this method is that the interior paneling fits back without any modifications. Reinstall the carpet and other fittings as they were, keeping the modifications beneath the surface.
5. Test for Comfort: After completing the drop, ensure the truck maintains its driving comfort. The floor modifications are subtle and should not impact the overall feel inside the cab.

Benefits of This Method

• Ease and Cleanliness: This approach is straightforward and involves fewer modifications than a traditional body drop.
• Preserved Comfort: Retaining the original interior fitment ensures that driving comfort remains unchanged.

By following these steps, you can achieve a clean and comfortable body drop on your full-size Chevy truck, enjoying the low profile without sacrificing the ride quality.

 

How does a stock floor body drop enhance driving comfort compared to a traditional body drop?

“Even though my Silverado was trailered to a far-away show, it was built to drive low and fast at 80 mph a half-inch off the ground. Auto Extremes sees to that, and Robert Robinson and his crew really know how to build a functional full-custom vehicle.

One of the main benefits of a stock floor body drop, which my Silverado features, is that it keeps a major portion of the floor intact. This means a more comfortable driving experience compared to a traditional body drop. Plus, you won’t have that unsightly step up into the cab that’s visible when the doors are open with a traditional body drop. It’s a win-win for both form and function.”

 

What modifications are needed for a stock floor body drop on a Chevy Silverado?

“Next, Wes was interested in pulling the tinted glass for clear before hopping on into the interior for a total overhaul, which really has become one of the 2005 Chevy Silverado highlighted features. Matt Reynolds of Charm City Upholstery and Interior out of Baltimore absolutely radicalized the Silverado’s interior space. Contrasting shades of brown leather skins were brought together to create a truly VIP experience within the cab. The seats are as plush as can be, and the one-off center console fabricated by Chris Rawlins at Exotic Auto Trends houses the air-ride controls, cup holders, charging dock and handy storage as well. To get the dash and all other plastic parts and pieces looking just as good as the upholstery work, Wes recruited Eric Foelber at Big Dog Customs to sand it all smooth and paint the surfaces to match. Toss in an Intro Twisted steering wheel and a full audio system featuring premium Kicker and JL components, and Wes was soon cruising with a show-worthy interior package.

But before these interior upgrades could truly shine, significant modifications to the truck’s structure were necessary to achieve the desired stock floor body drop. This involved lowering the cab mounts and sectioning the framerails, allowing the cab to sit lower than factory settings. Additionally, the driveline tunnel was raised to provide ample room for the driveshaft’s movement when the suspension is adjusted, ensuring no interference occurs.

Key Modifications for the Stock Floor Body Drop:

1. Lowering Cab Mounts: This step allows the cab to sit closer to the ground without compromising structural integrity.
2. Sectioning Framerails: By modifying the framerails, the cab can be repositioned lower on the chassis.
3. Raising Driveline Tunnel: Essential for allowing the driveshaft to move freely with the new lowered stance.

These modifications not only enhanced the truck’s stance but also ensured that a significant portion of the floor remained intact, translating into a more comfortable driving experience. With the structural changes complete, the interior overhaul by Matt Reynolds and his team could truly take center stage, transforming the Silverado into a blend of rugged performance and luxury comfort.”