Within the front framerails, Ken installed a homebuilt '89 Chevy 454ci big-block V-8 and topped it with an Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold and 750-cfm four-barrel carb. A Hedman header and Flowmaster 2.5-inch custom exhaust send the spent fumes merrily streaming. Ken improved the TH400 trans that backs the beasty big-block with a Lokar shifter and finned billet trans cooler.
Since the Chevy's exterior panels were really California rust-free, body pro Paul Metz concentrated on preparing them for a perfect exterior finish. He filled all the seams and eventually sprayed the panels with PPG Viper Red and several clearcoats.
Once Ken wired the '55 utilizing an EZ Wiring harness and installed an Alpine CD/stereo system with six speakers, he handed the hauler off to Abdias Rivera for upholstery. Mr. Rivera worked wonders with some sumptuous leather and suede, making the '55's interior as comfortable as a modern luxury car's cockpit. His work took a bit longer than expected because his wife was expecting their first, Melony, who was born during his stitch time on the Chevy.
Thanks to Susan Germyn's photography, Steve Ravelli's expertise, and Roger Bolen for helping with the CNC programming on the aluminum components, Ken and the other craftsmen mentioned were able to complete the '55 in two years. The owner stated it best when he wrote on the tech sheet, "This truck is a true reflection of years of perfecting my skills and paying close attention to details."
Circa '55 Chevy Blue Dot taillights...
Circa '55 Chevy Blue Dot taillights and the truck's rear bumper are the first and second line of defense against tailgaters. However, the pickup's 454ci big-block V-8 offers excellent escapability.
Professional upholsterer Abdias...
Professional upholsterer Abdias Rivera trimmed the six-way electric Mazda 929 bucket seats in bone and tan leather and suede. The headliner is upholstered without seams.
Albeit rechromed, the '55's...
Albeit rechromed, the '55's bumpers protect the PPG Viper Red paint job at both ends. Metz Rod and Custom performed the bodywork and pristine paintwork. The headlights are '55 Blue Dots. An all-new greenhouse installed by the owner provides exceptional visibility for all inside the cab.
To maintain 1/4 inch of clearance...
To maintain 1/4 inch of clearance inside the wheel and out, the rear American Racing Torq-Thrust II wheels were ordered with a special 7-inch backspace. The shown rear wheels are 17x10 inches and are shod with BFGoodrich TA Radials, 275/40R17s. In the front, 17x8-inch-wide Torq-Thrust IIs with a 5-inch backspace wear 245/45R17 BFGoodrich TAs.
Installed by the owner, the...
Installed by the owner, the oak and stainless stringer-comprised bed floor never goes out of style.
As evidenced by the fitment...
As evidenced by the fitment of the rear fender to the bedside, Metz Rod and Custom performed professional bodywork and paint prep before spraying the Chevy in PPG Viper Red and clearcoats.