John Mata Jr.
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November 29, 2022
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Department
Building a custom truck can mean a lot of different things to different folks. While there is no single “right” reason to do it, Elsayet Garcia of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, was looking to focus past creating a truck that was simply just for show or cruising during the weekends. Does he plan on taking his 1999 Chevy Silverado to shows and driving it around whenever possible? Yes, of course. His real reason for building the truck, however, was to honor his family—both those who are currently here and those important members who he has lost over the years.
“Essentially, I aimed at building this truck in the memory of my grandfather,” says Elsayet. “He didn’t get me into custom trucks or anything like that. It has always been something that I liked on my own. Once I started my family and began to place my attention towards starting a career, he pushed me to sell my ‘bagged S-10 I had at the time and spend that money on books for school. Once the chips fell into place, thanks to my wife I was able to purchase this Silverado, which I decided to dedicate to my grandfather because if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Elsayet purchased his Silverado truck back in 2017, and it took him about a year or so to figure out and correct all the wiring and motor issues that came with it. It had been previously ‘bagged on 22s with a cup kit in the front and a 2-link at the rear—nothing too crazy but effective.
“I knew I wanted the Silverado to be a sport truck,” says Elsayet. “I’ve always like the style of a clean, low pickup on big wheels, so that is what I was going for when I started to get to work on this project.”
The suspension system was the first phase of the build that Elsayet began working on, and the one that made the largest improvement on his truck’s overall looks and user friendliness. All the truck’s existing modifications were removed and tossed aside in place of a Twisted Metalworkz front end kit, as well as a Reklez Suspension 3-link rear setup complete with a monster notch kit. Air Lift 2600 Dominator ‘bags and Doetsch shocks have taken up residence at each corner to assist in providing a low stance with a great ride quality. The Concept Shop in Miami was able to pour their expertise into project to ensure everything was done right the first time around.
To take full advantage of the truck’s newfound ability to lay low, Elsayet asked for the ability for a set of staggered 24/26-inch wheels to be unlocked.
“I’ve had an ’06 Silverado crew cab on 22s with a static drop, but nothing like this current setup before,” he says. “I was ready to go above and beyond with this build, so I figured why not have the professionals go big with it?”
Elsayet’s son chose the Intro Rally wheels (nice choice, kid!), which required a 5-lug conversion to make it happen, but the extra work was totally worth it in the end. Getting the large wheel selection to fit properly was one of the most challenging aspects of the build by far, but it was the exact look they were after.
Next, much attention was placed on the rest of the Silverado’s outward appearance.
“I have always loved the SS but never really cared for the ’03-’06 front clip,” Elsayet admits. “Instead of upgrading to something I knew I wasn’t going to love, I went with the traditional ’99-’02 2500 front grille and bumper but added the SS cladding to give it a much more sportier look. Also, I flared out the front and rear bedsides for a wider appearance.”
To add to the Silverado’s sportier demeanor, Elsayet included an AMD cowl hood, and went ahead and had the bed pockets and antenna shaved right off. While the truck is currently waiting in line for a fresh paintjob, the GM Jet Black paint has been buffed and polished to a brilliant shine to make the most of the existing factory spray job.
The factory 5.3L engine was upgraded a bit to encourage better air circulation, but Elsayet really stopped and took some time to outfit the interior with a much needed overhaul. A custom bench seat from Snowden was covered in a deep burgundy vinyl material to offset the dark paint found on the exterior. Upholstery by Greg was happy to join the project, as was Chris Rawlings who cooked up custom door panels and speaker grilles for the redesign. Automotive Designs fabricated a custom sub enclosure, and a generous helping of billet accessories was peppered throughout the cab for good measure, although most eyes land on the matching Intro Rally steering wheel for obvious reasons.
With the Silverado currently sitting in such great condition, Elsayet will be the first to admit that the truck is far from being complete.
“My grandfather loved how the truck was taking shape, but he wasn’t able to see it in its final stage. He passed on March 3, 2021, and since then I have really jumped on finishing it up to honor him.”
Even though the truck was dedicated to his grandfather, Elsayet was able to recognize the gift of being present and cherish the time working on it with his wife, kids, as well as his Aftermath Florida family as well.
“This whole process has inspired my kids to build an S-10 and a Tacoma to be their first custom trucks, so we have those to look forward to in the future,” Elsayet says. “We have a lot of great ideas for those two minis, and we are eager to enjoy more quality time together in the garage and at shows.”
OWNER
Elsayet Garcia
Port Saint Lucie, FL
1999 Chevry Silverado
Aftermath
Engine
Chassis/Suspension
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
Exterior
Interior
The 1999 Chevrolet Silverado brought substantial changes in engine options compared to its predecessors. Previous models often left enthusiasts longing for higher displacement engines. For instance, during the mid-1980s, the ½-ton Chevy trucks were limited to a 5.0-liter engine, sparking questions about the absence of more robust options like the 5.7-liter or even a 6.0-liter engine, which were reserved for heavier-duty ¾-ton chassis.
The 1999 Silverado revolutionized the lineup with more choices:
These advancements meant drivers no longer felt restricted by limited engine capacities, especially in the ½-ton segment. The new 5.3-liter V8 in particular filled the power void that users had noted in earlier generations.
The 1999 chevy Silverado thus marked a key evolution in the truck’s engine lineup, providing a wider range of robust options, even for the typically less powerhouse ½-ton models. This move undoubtedly addressed the common frustrations of the past, delivering the power and performance that truck enthusiasts had been waiting for.
What engine is featured in the 1999 Chevy Silverado, and what are its specifications?
When it comes to power and performance, the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Standard Cab, Short Box presents a formidable combination of factory specifications and custom enhancements.
Now, let’s dive into the custom modifications that elevate this engine to new heights:
This blend of factory prowess and aftermarket ingenuity makes the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado a standout in performance and reliability.
What are the engine’s horsepower and torque ratings?
The engine produces 270 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 315 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
What is the engine displacement?
The engine has a displacement of 5.3 liters, equivalent to 327 cubic inches.
What is the exact engine type and configuration?
The engine is a Vortec 5300 GEN III, 90-degree V8.
What are the author’s impressions of the Chevy Silverado’s interior and design features?
“I have always loved the SS but never really cared for the ’03-’06 front clip,” Elsayet admits. “Instead of upgrading to something I knew I wasn’t going to love, I went with the traditional ’99-’02 2500 front grille and bumper but added the SS cladding to give it a much more sportier look. Also, I flared out the front and rear bedsides for a wider appearance.”
To add to the Silverado’s sportier demeanor, Elsayet included an AMD cowl hood, and went ahead and had the bed pockets and antenna shaved right off. While the truck is currently waiting in line for a fresh paintjob, the GM Jet Black paint has been buffed and polished to a brilliant shine to make the most of the existing factory spray job.
Stepping inside, you immediately notice the transformation from factory to custom. The factory 5.3L engine was upgraded a bit to encourage better air circulation, but Elsayet really stopped and took some time to outfit the interior with a much needed overhaul. A custom bench seat from Snowden was covered in a deep burgundy vinyl material to offset the dark paint found on the exterior. Upholstery by Greg was happy to join the project, as was Chris Rawlingswho cooked up custom door panels and speaker grilles for the redesign. Automotive Designs fabricated a custom sub enclosure, and a generous helping of billet accessories was peppered throughout the cab for good measure, although most eyes land on the matching Intro Rally steering wheel for obvious reasons.
The interior overhaul showcases a blend of style and functionality, paying homage to the classic design while elevating it with modern touches. It’s a space that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, marrying the past and present in a seamless fashion.
What exterior features catch the author’s attention?
The author appreciates the aesthetic enhancements like the stylish wheels and robust tires, which contribute to a more appealing overall look for the Silverado.
What specific interior features are mentioned?
The author highlights features like the upgraded instrument panel, which resembles that of a sports car, and a steering wheel that is both leather-wrapped and designed with a smaller airbag for better comfort and functionality.
What type of vehicle is the Chevy Silverado discussed in the article?
Sweet 1999 Chevy Silverado Bagged on 24’s
Building a custom truck can mean a lot of different things to different folks. While there is no single “right” reason to do it, Elsayet Garcia of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, was looking to focus past creating a truck that was simply just for show or cruising during the weekends.
This 1999 Chevy Silverado is not built to be a muscle truck or a serious tow vehicle. Instead, it serves as a canvas for personal expression and family tribute. Elsayet’s creation isn’t about raw power or heavy hauling; it’s about presence and personality on the road.
Does he plan on taking his 1999 Chevy Silverado to shows and driving it around whenever possible? Yes, of course. His real reason for building the truck, however, was to honor his family—both those who are currently here and those important members who he has lost over the years.
By focusing on aesthetics and emotional significance, this Silverado stands out as a symbol of togetherness rather than a workhorse. It reflects a deeper connection and a celebration of personal heritage, making it more than just a vehicle.
What type of performance category does the vehicle not belong to?
The vehicle is not classified as a muscle truck, nor is it designed to be a serious tow vehicle, indicating that its strengths lie outside traditional performance or towing capabilities.
How does the 5.3-liter engine in the Silverado perform in terms of power and torque?
Testing at the Los Angeles County Raceway with the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado revealed consistent results across various modifications and techniques. Initially, the factory tires provided adequate traction, which was reaffirmed through multiple launch approaches. Applying a little preload to the torque converter proved most effective.
To understand the performance of this vehicle, it’s crucial to consider the heart of the Silverado: the 5.3-liter Vortec 5300 GEN III V8 engine. Here’s a quick breakdown:
The automatic transmission shifted gears at the 5,000 rpm redline, but the engine’s drop in rpm softened the performance due to its high torque peak of 4,000 rpm. Manually shifting gears at higher rpm didn’t yield any performance gain, nor did removing the air-cleaner element.
Despite experimenting with different methods, the timeslips were nearly uniform. The best recorded, after adjusting for all variables, was a corrected quarter-mile time of 15.71 seconds at a speed of 86 mph.
These specifications and testing results illustrate that while the Vortec engine provides substantial power and torque, achieving optimal performance requires a balance of technique and understanding of the engine’s characteristics.
What are the engine’s horsepower and torque figures?**
The engine delivers 270 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and produces 315 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
What details are provided about the camshaft?**
The camshaft is chain-driven, made of steel, and includes roller hydraulic lifters.
What kind of cylinder heads does the engine have?**
The engine features aluminum overhead valve cylinder heads with two valves per cylinder.
What type of induction system does the engine use?**
It utilizes electronic sequential multipoint fuel injection with a composite intake manifold and a 75mm throttle body.
What is the compression ratio of the engine?**
The engine’s compression ratio is 9.5:1.
What are the bore and stroke measurements?**
The bore measures 3.78 inches, while the stroke is 3.62 inches.
What is the engine’s displacement?**
The engine has a displacement of 5.3 liters, equivalent to 327 cubic inches.
What type of engine is in the Silverado?**
The Silverado is equipped with a Vortec 5300 GEN III V8 engine featuring a 90-degree configuration, a cast-iron block, and aluminum cylinder heads.
What are the differences in handling and performance between the factory tires and the aftermarket tires used during the test?
Switching from aftermarket tires to factory-installed ones had a noticeable impact on the Silverado’s performance. The truck’s handling and ride quality significantly declined after moving away from the trusty 275/60-17 tires.
Originally, the truck was fitted with factory-issue 255/70R15 rubber. A quick roll around town instantly revealed the differences. The handling and ride suffered considerably, prompting a bypass of further handling tests and an immediate shift to quarter-mile evaluations. This decision underscored the stark contrast in performance between the two tire sets.
The nimble control previously enjoyed with the aftermarket tires disappeared. The factory options failed to deliver the same level of responsiveness, making the truck feel less stable, especially during sharp turns and maneuvers. The aftermarket 275/60-17 tires had clearly offered superior precision and control.
The overall comfort took a hit as well. Where the aftermarket tires had provided a smooth and cushioned ride, the factory tires instead led to a bumpier and less enjoyable experience. The truck now seemed more susceptible to vibrations and minor road imperfections.
The shift away from the 275/60-17 Comp T/As highlighted a significant compromise in both handling precision and ride comfort. The decision to skip further handling tests due to the performance drop highlights how critical tire choice is in maintaining a vehicle’s optimal functionality.
In summary, the transition to factory-installed tires compromised both the Silverado’s handling precision and its ride comfort, emphasizing the crucial role of tire selection in vehicular performance.
What are the characteristics of the Chevy Silverado discussed in the article?
The 1999 Chevy Silverado is a standout in its class, blending robust engineering with impressive performance capabilities. Here’s a detailed look at what makes this truck a reliable choice:
Under the hood, the Silverado features the Vortec 5300 GEN III V8 engine. With a displacement of 5.3L (327ci), it delivers a formidable 270 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 315 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine, paired with an electronic sequential multipoint fuel injection system, ensures optimal performance and efficiency.
On the road, the Silverado exhibits surprising agility. The independent front suspension with coil springs and gas-charged tube shocks offers a smooth ride, while the semi-elliptic multileaf springs at the rear provide stability. Power rack-and-pinion steering enhances maneuverability, making it easy to handle tight corners.
The truck is equipped with all-wheel disc brakes and ABS, providing reliable stopping power. The 12.01-inch front discs and 12.80-inch rear discs ensure the Silverado can handle various road conditions with confidence. Whether navigating city streets or winding roads, the braking system supports safe and controlled driving.
Standard 16×6½-inch aluminum alloy wheels come with 235/75 16 General tires, while the option for 17×8-inch Budnik aluminum alloy wheels with 255/60 17 BFG Comp T/A tires offers enhanced grip and style.
With a quarter-mile performance of 15.71 seconds at 85.8 mph, the Silverado combines power with precision. Priced at a base of $19,450 and tested at $22,910, it offers value alongside its performance prowess.
These components collectively contribute to the Silverado’s strong performance and dependability whether you’re hauling heavy loads or tackling tough terrains.
What is the pricing of the vehicle?
The base price of the 1999 Chevy Silverado is $19,450, while the model as tested is priced at $22,910.
What are the wheel and tire specifications?
Stock wheels are 16×6½-inch aluminum alloy paired with 235/75 16 General tires. The test model features 17×8-inch Budnik aluminum alloy wheels with 255/60 17 BFG Comp T/A tires.
What are the dimensions and specifications of the brakes?
The Silverado is equipped with 12.01-inch power-assisted discs in the front and 12.80-inch power-assisted discs with a drum-in-hat parking brake in the rear, ensuring effective braking performance.
What is the suspension setup of the vehicle?
The truck’s suspension system includes an independent SLA with coil springs and gas-charged tube shocks in the front, and semi-elliptic multileaf springs with gas-charged tube shocks in the rear.
What are the specific performance metrics of the vehicle?
The Silverado completes a quarter-mile in 15.71 seconds at a speed of 85.8 mph, offering a solid performance for its class.
How does the vehicle perform in real-world driving scenarios?
The Silverado demonstrates impressive handling and stability, particularly when navigating winding roads. Its all-wheel disc brakes and ABS contribute to safety and control. While it’s not designed for road-course racing, it offers better cornering ability than expected for a full-size truck.
What is the engine type and its specifications?
The 1999 Chevy Silverado is powered by a Vortec 5300 GEN III 90-degree V8 engine. It features a displacement of 5.3 liters, a bore and stroke of 3.78 x 3.62 inches, and a compression ratio of 9.5:1. The engine utilizes electronic sequential multipoint fuel injection with a composite intake manifold and a 75mm throttle body. It delivers 270 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 315 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
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