Building the Perfect Base: Custom Chassis Systems for ’88-’98 GM Trucks

John Mata Jr. . August 23, 2023 . Chevrolet

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Custom Systems for ’88-’98 GM Trucks

With the scarcity of affordable C10 trucks out there, the interest in finding other vintage GM truck models has risen. Luckily for all builders, the aftermarket industry has steadily caught up with the ’88-’98 OBS craze across all platforms. We are now seeing an increasing variety of available parts, which now includes a handful of great full-chassis systems for these models.

While there are plenty of à la carte suspension products available for ’88-’98 trucks, the fabricators that are offering full custom chassis systems have jam-packed these frames with everything today’s builders are looking to include in their pickup projects. For those who are looking to build a slammed, ‘bagged cruiser or piece together a performance pickup with a coilover-powered race-ready suspension, there are now plenty of chassis options to help build the most ideal foundation for any type of OBS.

Available in many budget levels with variable package options, a complete chassis system is not necessarily out of reach, especially if you can get your hands on an affordable truck from the start. Here, you will see plenty of options for your OBS project that ranges in price based on function and choice of add-on components to push your build as far as you’d like.

Follow along and read up on the latest available complete chassis systems for ‘bagged and coilover applications to get your OBS build on track now!

Roadster Shop Low-Pro Chassis

The guys at Roadster Shop understand the issue that OBS builders are facing in terms of complete chassis systems designed to make a C1500 look and perform great. Not only does its Low-Pro chassis promote a low slung, aggressive stance, but it also features a very important selling point in its ability to avoid having to raise the bed floor. This will allow the truck to fully lay out while saving time and labor involved in messing with the bed, which is a huge. Retaining that factory look and function is definitely something to consider while shopping around.

The Low-Pro chassis is more than a one-trick pony. It also features an industry-leading trailing arm IRS system, an OEM GM differential with an innovative link system that supports said trailing arm with ‘bag, and a cantilevered shock configuration. Experience excellent ride quality through the chassis’ excellent shock travel and valving, DOM mandrel-bent sway bars, and Roadster Shop’s new front suspension geometry that has been specifically designed for the OBS platform. Also, don’t worry about large wheel and tire combinations being able to fit—the frame has been blessed with accommodating front and rear track widths as well as a fully unrestricted steering angle to work with large-diameter hoops. All popular engine/transmission combos have also been considered with the design of this chassis.

Roadster Shop SPEC Slammed Chassis

Another chassis option from Roadster Shop is the SPEC Slammed system that utilizes the latest in manufacturing technology to build the lightest, strongest, and easiest-to-install complete system around. The Roadster Shop team has dialed in the manufacturing process to streamline procedures, which boil down to lower costs and shorter lead times (approximately 18 weeks), so you can start building sooner without blowing through your budget.

SPEC IFS is engineered to deliver outstanding performance wrapped up in a user-friendly package. A new proprietary suspension geometry has been designed to provide the best balance of ride quality and performance in its class. With so many features and upgrade abilities direct from Roadster Shop, the SPEC chassis might just be the perfect foundation you’ve been looking to build your OBS project around.

Roadster Shop
847-949-7637
roadstershop.com

OBS Chevy Racing 315 Chassis

Beginning with a factory GM frame, OBS Chevy Racing takes it through multiple stages while creating a complete performance chassis system for OBS builders.

The OBS Chevy Racing crew starts by strengthening the OEM frame utilizing their frame brace kit. Next, they move onto installing their coilover conversion system and test-fitting every other component that will be featured on the final product, which includes any and all optional parts selected by the customer. Once everything lines up properly, the entire frame is disassembled and sent off for powdercoating before it is reassembled again and prepped for final delivery or pickup.

The “315” name was given to this chassis since it was designed to fit 315 wide tires without any modification necessary to the body. This important feature will most likely appeal specifically to those looking to rip their OBS around the track, but this chassis system is equally built to please those looking to enjoy superb ride quality while leisurely cruising around.

OBS Chevy Racing
731-989-2256
obschevyracing.com

Acme Chassis Company ’88-’98 GM Chassis

Not only can Acme fabricate a complete chassis for your C1500 pickup, but it can also configure one to fit Tahoes and Suburbans from this era as well.

Whichever frame you choose, it can be ordered as an airbag or coilover chassis with an entry-level Stage I package that comes complete with a front bumper mount, body-dropped body mounts, tabs for motor mounts, crossmembers with integrated 3.5-inch exhaust ports, front 1.25 tubular control arms, and a parallel 4-link with Watt’s link. A laser-cut and CNC-bent 3/16 steel constructed front clip comes standard as does adjustable, bolt-on coilover mounts for the ultimate in customization.

From there, the sky is the limit with upper tier optional packages that feature amenities such as power rack-and-pinion; LS, LT, or BBC motor mounts; Ridetech coilovers; Wilwood braking components; as well as premium rearend options and powdercoating services. Acme can build a full custom chassis for just about any classic truck or SUV and budget.

Acme Chassis Company
713-993-6366
www.acmechassisfactory.com

Custom-Fit Chassis System

Chris Alston’s Chassisworks offers a complete foundational solution that not only includes two custom-fit frame options, but also a prefab floor system as well as four different front and six different rear suspension options. Between the Perimeter-X or Straight-Rail frames, you can set them up for extreme performance utilizing premium components that promote ultimate Pro Touring handling at the higher end of the spectrum. Coilover setups, full Wilwood braking systems, adjustable-rate anti-roll bars, tubular arms, power rack-and-pinion steering, a rocker arm IRS package, and more—there are so many cool options to consider with a Chris Alston chassis package.

Custom-fit chassis systems are designed to offer a much lower ride height than factory, which is huge bonus in the sport truck scene. You can also look forward to the ability to fit much larger tires and have more room for your transmission of choice. The best way to get started building the perfect chassis for your OBS is to give Chris Alston’s a call and set yours up now.

Chris Alston’s Chassisworks
888-388-0297
www.cachassisworks.com

’88-’98 Tahoe/Yukon Chassis (Two-Door)

Phat Phabz has a wide assortment of impressive and complete chassis systems (including ’88-’98 pickup) but this one here is designed specifically for the two-door Tahoe/Yukon platform. The control arm setup allows for up to 14.5 inches of lift—more than enough room to create comfortable space for large-diameter wheels. Be ready to experience a lock-to-lock turning radius without worrying about rubbing on the frame rails. A lowered rack-and-pinion mounting location in conjunction with lowered motor mounts keep the steering shaft from binding, as well as reducing sheetmetal cab floor modifications to a minimum. At the rear, a parallel 4-link system featuring sleeve air bags creates a stable and smooth ride quality to boot.

Choose from a base chassis setup or upgrade your new frame with premium optional equipment that Phat Phabz has made available. From front and rear sway bars to an aluminum 23-gallon aluminum fuel cell to rear axle installation and customization when needed, your Tahoe’s new frame can truly be built to order.