Orange Crush - Killer Chevy Silverado

Story & Photos by Chris Collard

Borrowed from the brake system of an old road scraper, dual 3.5-gallon air tanks, each with its own quick release nozzle, provide plenty of juice for running power tools or airing up tires. The Hi-lift Jack mounts securely out of harm's way on the left bedrail. A pair of six inch Superlift Springs and Pro Comp shocks manage the unsprung weight of the Dana 60 and monster 42-inch IROKs. A 2.5-inch exhaust snakes its way to a pair of Borla mufflers.

 

A combination of Sony and Pioneer components, tucked neatly behind the seat, can crank out a 500-watt concerto of polyphonic of harmonies. While this differential guard may look like a fancy mail order item, it's actually a home-brewed unit.

 

Because tranny temps can be an issue on long accents and on the way down, low-range gearing was essential and addressed with a 203/205 double low-range t-case from Off Road Designs.  Due to the cheesy nature of the GM stamped-steel frame, and the fact that loads from the front suspension would often tear the frame rail off, the owner fabbed several additional crossmembers. Chevy's push into the diesel market in the early 80's would not be considered its greatest moment. And the original 6.2L mill, circa 1983, had to go. A more practical and reliable solution was a tried and true Chevy 350 fitted with an Edelbrock Performer Manifold, Holly Throttle-Body Injection and Hedman Hedders.

 

Putting the power-to-the-slickrock is a set of 42-inch Super Swamper IROKs wrapped around Trail Ready 16.5x9 rims beadlocks. Wrapped in aluminum, this home-fabricated flatbed is the perfect setup for slipping through Moab's tight chutes and canyons without damage.

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