John Mata Jr.
.
November 07, 2023
.
New Products
The community has definitely come together to show support to one of the quickest-growing truck segments to sweep the nation—the OBS ’88-’98 GMT400 platform. For truck enthusiasts of a certain age, it might be hard to come to grips with these pickups being considered the new “classic” trucks but, hey, at least you can say that these were the leaders of the first wave sport truck scene back in the early ’90s. This platform is definitely deserving of its resurgence over the last few years, and we only see signs of it growing.
One major sign of that growth is the sheer number of OBS projects showing up to truck events all over the country. Builders of these trucks are paying homage to the style of the past by modernizing them with products that are currently being designed and manufactured to meet the criteria of today’s custom standards. From radical chassis components, readily available restoration sheetmetal panels, and interior parts to high-performance products and everything in between, there has never been a more exciting time to build a full-size pickup or SUV of this era.
Follow along and start browsing through what we hand-selected from the current OBS aftermarket for your consideration. Surely there’s something here you need right this minute or will soon want to have in the very near future. The height of summer show season is now—don’t wait to place an order for these must-have parts before winter is here.
Achieve 6 inches of drop with this rear axle flip kit from Western Chassis. This kit relocates the leaf spring below the axle and comes complete with all the parts to do it, including powdercoated axle saddles, tie plates, zinc-coated U-bolts, hardware, and detailed instructions. A rear C-notch is recommended alongside installation of this setup, which is also available from Western Chassis.
Western Chassis
888-999-9139
westernchassis.com
Available for ’88-’98 C1500s, Aldan American’s front and rear suspension kit includes two front adjustable coilovers with 700-pound springs and two TrueLine rear adjustable shocks with hardware. The frontend ride height can be adjusted up to a 2-inch drop, so this kit can serve as a source for a slightly lowered, high-quality suspension system for your OBS truck project.
Aldan American
310-834-7478
aldanamerican.com
Sometimes all you want/need for your truck is a tried-and-true static drop kit like this one here from Belltech. With this setup, you can drop the frontend of GM C1500 pickup 4 or 5 inches and the rear a full 6 inches. The package comes complete with Pro Coil springs, drop spindles, flip kit, shocks, frame notches, and fresh grade-8 hardware.
Belltech
800-445-3767
www.belltech.com
Not only will this kit improve 60-0 foot stopping times and increase driver feedback in ’88-’98 GM 1500 trucks, but POL’s BlackOut disc brake package will add a sense of elevated sophistication to the rearend too. Designed to be compatible with a 5×5-inch bolt pattern, this kit comes complete with 11.625-inch vented brake rotors, GM D154 calipers w/brake pads, brake hoses and banjo bolts, caliper mounting brackets, parking brake cables, all necessary hardware, and detailed instructions.
Performance Online (POL)
800-638-1703
www.performanceonline.com
A substantial suspension drop looks great on any truck, and this rear shock kit is specifically designed to work with ’88-’98 Chevy/GMC C15000 2WD pickups with a 6-inch lowered rear. New lower-mounted brackets are included to correct the shock angle while still allowing 8 inches of travel.
Ridetech
812-481-4787
ridetech.com
QA1 has engineered its C1500 suspension kits to make OBS trucks handle great while offering ride-height adjustability that dial in the desired heights with up to 6 inches of drop in the front and 7 inches at the rear. Kits can be ordered with choice of single- or double-adjustable coilover shocks to help add modern-day performance and drivability to this platform. On-the-truck adjustable valving makes it easy to achieve an ideal level of comfort and performance. And best of all, the install is completely bolt on—no welding is required.
QA1
952-985-5675
qa1.net
Everyone can use a new shirt with never-before-seen artwork featuring a killer OBS pickup truck. Modernized throwback street style doesn’t get better than HRBB!
Hot Rods by Boyd
866-612-2693
hotrodsbyboyd.com
This kit from DC Fab comes with everything needed for a clean and simple install. The front-half bolts ensure proper placement of the rear section that is to be welded on. Front hangers and bars come ready for mounting level sensors, so just add shocks, ‘bags, and choice of air management, and you’ll be ready to party. DC fabricates this kit with 0.250-inch HRPO steel and can accommodate 14-inch-wide wheels.
DC Fab
580-303-0251
dcfabparts.com
Ditch your two-door 2WD Tahoe’s leaf springs and replace them with this complete parallel 4-link system from React Suspension. This package comes complete with a Panhard bar and includes U-bolts and all required hardware. React is designed to work with an existing Belltech frame notch, or you can add its own notch to the kit if your truck’s frame hasn’t been notched yet. The adjustable rearend will feature a 4.5- to 6.5-inch drop and will run up to a 10.5-inch-wide wheel.
React Suspension
480-420-8175
reactsuspension.com
Wilwood’s ProSpindle kits contain a pair of one-piece spindles with integrated steering arms for ’88-’98 Chevy and GMC 2WD C1500 pickup, Blazer, and Suburban. These spindles are specifically designed for use with Wilwood’s disc brake kits and offer a 2-inch drop without changing steering geometry. The ProSpindle is fabricated from proprietary-grade cast steel with a traditional bearing snout that supports Wilwood-kit-specific hubs in both 5×4.75 and 5×5.00 wheel bolt circles.
Wilwood
805-388-1188
wilwood.com
TRUCK builders who are truly looking to piece together a certifiable street machine will greatly benefit from Elevated Concept’s recently updated coilover race arm kit. This impressive package comes complete with upper and lower Moog ball joints, heat-treated Chromoly Heims with spacers, and can be ordered with or without coilovers. Elevated Concepts has a great selection of performance suspension components for the OBS platform and will truly become a lot of builders’ new best friend.
Elevated Concepts
elevatedconceptsinc.com
Now available in its second generation, the WirelessAIR system is an advanced wireless controller that allows you to control your truck’s air springs with no strings attached. Air Lift’s new wireless handheld unit along with optional Android or iOS app connectivity allows for convenient operation anywhere near your truck without any lines running to the back of the bed or inside of the cab. Pair with Air Lift’s EZ-Mount manifold and compressor package, and you’re good to go.
Air Lift
800-248-0892
www. airliftcompany.com
Built with the customer/builder in mind, GSI Fab created this C-notch kit to be completely bolt-on, and it comes complete with all grade-8 hardware to help get the job done. Notches come powdercoated in semi-gloss black to blend right into your truck’s existing frame rails.
GSI Machine & Fabrication
877-951-1890
www.gsimfab.com
The Santa Cruz is the first and only radio designed exclusively for Chevy OBS trucks. The unique form factor of the Santa Cruz installs directly into 1988-’94 GM trucks, replicating the style of the original factory radio. The Santa Cruz adds modern features, including HD-radio technology, Bluetooth, and Sirius-XM with an authentic OEM style. Choose from three different motor options to fit your own personal feature requirements.
Retro Manufacturing
888-325-1555
www.retromanufacturing.com
Available in 5- to 8-inch diameters, the SS-Series ‘bags from Slam Specialties are a true staple in the best air-ride systems out there. Slam has revised the SS-Series ‘bags with a new look, but they still feature the same non-ballooning design, integrated bump stop, and 6061-T6 machined aluminum port and inserts as before.
Slam Specialties
888-352-5225
slamspecialties.com
LMC has a great seating solution for your OBS truck build. These seat sets come assembled with seat slider tracks, and seat reclining mechanisms are included. These seats are universal in design and require mounting brackets for installation, which are sold separately. The premium-grade vinyl and choice of black or red stitching will last for years of enjoyment in your truck.
LMC Truck
800-562-8782
www.lmctruck.com
Spare Time Fab now offers billet dash vents for OBS pickups and SUV models. Available for the ’88-’94 square dash and ’95-’99 round dash, these can replace the original fragile (usually broken) vents and utilize the original hardware. These pieces are CNC-milled to be an exact fit and are available in polished or mill finish. Spare Time Fab offers many billet accessories for ’88-’98 Chevy/GMC trucks, so go check out the rest of the company’s wares.
Spare Time Fab
717-222-4390
www.sparetimefab.com
Throw out your truck’s old, faded, and worn taillights and update them with a fresh set of United Pacific’s LED tails. Each durable polycarbonate housing features a quality, engineered plastic lens and an easy plug-in design with OE style connector. Aside from C1500 use, you can also use these on ’92-’99 Suburban, ’95-99 Tahoe, ’92-’94 Blazer and GMC Jimmy, and ’92-’99 GMC Yukon models.
United Pacific
866-327-5288
upcarparts.com
Dakota Digital’s direct bolt-in HDX six-gauge instrument cluster fits ’95-’98 GM pickups and will modernize their interior in a hurry. The kit includes a range of sensors to be wired into the OEM harness and is available in a choice of black or silver alloy gauge-face styling. Calibration and personal settings are controlled with the built-in, capacitive-touch buttons or through the available Bluetooth app for Apple and Android devices.
Dakota Digital
800-852-3228
www.dakotadigital.com
This head unit features large OEM-style push buttons that will give it a classic look in the dash. Although it has vintage styling, this stereo features all the modern features you’d ever want for your OBS project. Utilize the built-in rear USB input to access MP3 files, Bluetooth connectivity to stream music wirelessly, and a 14-inch extension to mount this unit in the glovebox or anywhere else to keep it stealthily stashed away.
Custom Autosound
800-888-8637
customautosoundmfg.com
You would do your truck a major disservice if you didn’t apply proper insulation when completely overhauling the interior. DEI’s vehicle-specific insulation kit features a combination of its Under Carpet Lite and 2mm dampening material to create an effective and affordable solution to battling unwanted heat and road noise. This kit is easy to install because it comes pre-cut for the extended cab OBS pickup and is also available for other classic truck models.
DEI
800-264-9472
www.designengineering.com
Designed for ’94-’98 GMC C/K pickup and Jimmy and Suburban models with dual headlights, this stylish and durable grille is designed to enhance the appearance and functionality of these iconic vehicles. AMD’s grille shell is a direct-fit replacement of the OEM part as it utilizes your vehicle’s existing mounting points.
Auto Metal Direct (AMD)
877-575-3586
www.autometaldirect.com
Replace your truck’s worn out headliner with this ABS plastic liner for standard cab pickups. The headliner can be painted to match the interior if desired and installs easily. The four 5.5-inch air suspension speakers will increase sound quality, and a built-in storage compartment can be used to house a receiver or anything else you’d like to keep away from plain view. Package includes foam speaker baffle and suppression pads, antenna extension cable, bezel plate, dome light, and all installation hardware.
Classic Parts Of America
800-741-1678
www.classicparts.com
Powerbass understands the need for bass in any truck’s audio system, which is why it offers a wide array of loaded subwoofer enclosures in many sizes to fit your exact needs. This slim 12-inch box features a unique design approach that places heavy emphasis on engineering the woofers to fit the box, not the other way around. This approach gives each of Powerbass’ sub enclosures a deeper, tighter bass that delivers more bang for your buck.
Powerbass
909-923-3868
powerbassusa.com
If you’re looking for an easy interior upgrade, Lokar’s aluminum pads mount onto the factory arm and spring for quick installation. Choose between black or brushed finish with rubber inserts or ball milled for a sleek appearance.
Lokar
877-469-7440
lokar.com
InVision LCD Dash kit
This exciting direct-fit instrumentation solution for ’95-’98 Chevy trucks monitors speedometer, tachometer, water temperature, oil pressure, fuel level, and volts all through a high-resolution and colorful display. Three user-selectable screens can be chosen from on the 12.3-inch LCD display. The kit includes a wiring harness and sending units for water temperature and oil pressure as well as a joystick for dash customization.
Auto Meter
866-248-6357
www.autometer.com
The Gen 5 is Vintage Air’s most powerful and intelligent climate control system and is sure to increase the cool factor just in time before summer heats up. This package comes with everything needed for installation, like the evaporator kit and all under-hood components such as compressor, engine brackets, condenser with brackets, perforated refrigerant lines, drier, fittings, and all hardware.
Vintage Air
800-862-6658
www.vintageair.com
These panels are 100% new and fully molded to allow for easy, bolt-on installation. Take advantage of a built-in armrest, which is a huge upgrade from factory panels in both form and function. Choose from a variety of vinyl colors to match OE or existing TMI upholstery.
TMI Products
888-460-0640
www.tmiproducts.com
Dress up the doorjambs of your truck with these vents from All American Billet. They are fabricated from 6061-T6 aluminum and are available in machined, polished, or black anodized finishes.
All American Billet
844-245-5381
www.allamericanbillet.com
AMD has specifically engineered this window seal set to fit ’88-’98 Chevy/GMC OBS pickup, Blazer, Jimmy, and Suburban to make an effective seal on the door glass, which protects against moisture, drafts, and noise while enhancing the overall appearance. Installation of the inner and outer seals is straightforward and hassle-free.
Auto Metal Direct (AMD)
877-575-3586
www.autometaldirect.com
This set of direct-fit replacement gauges for ’95-’98 GM OBS truck from New Vintage USA (NVU) installs in the factory location using stock mounting points and can reuse the factory lens carrier for a finished look. NVU’s gauge kit features built-in indicators, performance timers, shift warning, bold blue backlighting, and so much more.
New Vintage USA
248-850-5482
newvintageusallc.mybigcommerce.com
The levers on your factory seats are most likely broken or just about there. Even if they aren’t, they won’t last that much longer—trust us. LG Billet has addressed this issue with its billet seat levers that are guaranteed to last a lifetime and are much more appealing to look at with CNC precision machining and choice between machined, raw or anodized black finishes. These are sold in a set of three handles to cover the driver side, passenger side, and passenger side entry.
LG Billet USA
www.lgbilletusa.com
These levers are constructed from 6061-T6 billet aluminum and have been engineered and precision-machined to have an OEM-like fitment while looking far better and outlasting way longer than the factory rubber-coated alternative. Install this lever with the quickness with only a punch and hammer!
LG Billet USA
www.lgbilletusa.com
Eddie Motorsports presents its new billet aluminum hood hinges for ’88-’98 Chevy C/K trucks. These hinges will also fit ’92-’99 Blazer/Jimmy, Suburban, and Tahoe/Yukon models, and are currently in stock and ready to ship. All of Eddie Motorsports’ hood hinges are precision CNC-machined in the USA from high quality 6061-T6 aluminum and utilize sealed roller bearings at critical pivot points to ensure consistent, long-lasting action. Hinge kits come with stainless steel nitrogen filled gas struts for smooth, uniform operation and include high-quality stainless steel mounting hardware.
Eddie Motorsports
888-813-1293
www.eddiemotorsports.com
Designed to fit ’95-’98 trucks and ’95-’00 SUV and crew cabs, this billet cover is offered in your choice of raw, brushed, or polished finish. Add a quick dash of style to your truck’s interior with Spare Time Fab’s assortment of in-cab dress-up parts.
Spare Time Fab
717-222-4390
www.sparetimefab.com
Don’t let the Squarebody on the cover fool you. NPD has a lot of great parts available for your ’88-’98 OBS. With over 350 pages absolutely packed with high-quality restoration parts across all classic Chevy truck platforms, you’ll be sure to find something for your project.
National Parts Depot
800-874-7595
www.npdlink.com
American Racing has just introduced the all-new Precision Series mono-block forged wheel designs, which includes four new additions—Idler, Corsair, Splitter, and Judge. Each wheel is available in 20- to 24-inch diameter sizes with staggered applications available. Select from full polished, custom face polished lip, and brushed face polished lip finishes to truly dial them in to the style of your truck.
American Racing
831-290-6514
www.americanracing.com
Built from the ground up, this 427CI “retro fit” LS engine includes everything you need to easily install. It has been outfitted with a new GM block and heads, along with BluePrint’s own forged crank, rods, and pistons, and also includes a performance hydraulic roller cam and lifters, upgraded roller rockers, universal oil pan, GM intake, fuel injectors, and so much more. Enjoy an industry-leading 30-month, 50,000-mile warranty and rev up with peace of mind.
BluePrint Engines
308-236-1010
blueprintengines.com
These mild Tubz are designed for static dropped or mild ‘bagged ’88-’98 trucks and measure approximately 2 to 3 inches taller in the peak, 2 inches wider toward the outer edge of the fender, and 2 to 3 inches toward the engine. They are built to clear the factory AC drier and wiring harness and will clear the master cylinder and brake lines on ’88-’92 models. Keep in mind that the ABS box will need to be relocated to under the master cylinder, and that the battery box will need to be raised to clear the Tubz.
Slosh Tubz
497-599-9664
www.sloshtubz.net
Truck builders wanting to run with a true vintage inspired ’90s-style wheel will absolutely love the Street Heat Series two-piece billet wheels from US Mags. This series features six new killer retro wheels designs that will take you right back to the good old days of the mini-truck/early full-size scene that were an absolute blast. They’re available in 17- to 28-inch diameter sizes with custom offsets and a standard polished finish (other finishes are available upon request). With names like Carolina Reaper, Cayenne, Mango Habanero, Jalapeño, Scoville, and Serrano, there’s no mistaking the scorching style of US Mags’ Street Heat Series wheel lineup.
US Mags
831-290-6514
www.us-mags.com
LS Fab’s tailgate assist shock/strut will slow the tailgate opening action, which allows it to open freely without slamming after unlatching. The kit includes the dampener, two ball studs, and a jam nut for an easy install. Once the tailgate saver system is in, you’ll enjoy much smoother operation when accessing the contents in the bed of your truck.
LS Fabrication
780-678-9469
lsfab.com
Available to fit Stepside shortbed or Fleetside short- or longbed ’88-’98 applications, this low-profile aluminum cover from Pro’s Pick is constructed from aluminum or stainless steel, which means you won’t ever have to worry about rust being an issue. The cover itself is lightweight and utilizes electric power actuators for simple open/close operation. The lid support structure features integrated rain gutters and protective weather stripping to keep contents inside the bed safe from the elements.
Pro’s Pick
800-865-7366
pros-pick.com
Make sure your truck’s electrical system has enough juice to power modern 12-volt accessories such as stereo equipment, aftermarket lighting, and air-ride components. Powermaster’s high-amp alternators feature high output with excellent idle performance and are available in chrome, brushed, or black finishes.
Powermaster Performance
630-849-7754
powermastermotorsports.com
BORGESON Universal gained a lot of success with its Street and Performance Series steering gears, and now it offers the only quick ratio 12.7:1 power steering box to replace the Delphi 800 series unit found in ’88-’98 Chevy and GMC OBS trucks. This steering box will bolt directly to the stock location and fit to the original power steering pitman arm, steering shaft, and power steering hoses.
Borgeson
860-482-8283
www.borgeson.com
This real wood bedliner offers classic styling for virtually any pickup truck make and model. Each kit is individually 3D modeled and digitally designed to ensure precise fitment through CNC milling to match every single contour. A state-of-the-art mounting system allows the Retroliner to “float” just above the factory metal bed floor to allow rain and wash water to drain appropriately.
Bedwood
877-206-9663
bedwood.com
Designed to make an LS swap in an ’88-’98 GM pickup much easier, Summit Racing’s LS conversion headers provide more clearance at the collectors than factory exhaust manifolds. Made from 304 polished stainless steel, the headers are fully TIG-welded and feature 1 5/8-inch diameter primary tubes for improved exhaust flow.
Summit Racing
800-230-3030
www.summitracing.com
One of the first true directional wheels ever designed by Boyd Coddington in the ’80s is now available like it was never offered back in the day. The 17-inch wheels used to feel like big diameters to run on a truck, but now these classics start at that size and are available all the way up to 24×14! Each HRBB Retro Series wheel is built 100% in the USA and is made of 100% 6061 billet aluminum.
Hot Rods by Boyd
866-612-2693
hotrodsbyboyd.com
Designed for header-equipped vehicles, this dual exhaust system features aluminized 409 stainless steel tubing that is mandrel-bent for high exhaust flow, increased horsepower, and reduced back pressure.
Summit Racing
800-230-3030
www.summitracing.com
Need to step up your wire and tube management game? Made-4-You Products (M4YP), a leader in the automotive aftermarket industry since 1985, has the perfect solution. M4YP’s product line consists of injection molded line clamps, plug wire separators, and related wire and tube management products. Molded from nylon, these clamps and related parts will not fade, stain or discolor and are impervious to automotive fluids.
Lokar
877-469-7440
lokar.com
Designed to be an affordable, direct replacement for high-mileage or burned out 350 engines in full size GM ’96-’99 pickups and SUV models, Chevrolet’s HT383E crate engine features a cast-iron block with four-bolt main caps, a forged steel crankshaft, a smooth hydraulic roller camshaft, and a set of iron Vortec heads. Expect to see 323hp at 4,200 rpm and 444 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm.
Chevrolet
www.chevrolet.com
The availability of these kits has recently been expanded to fit ’88-’94 GM OBS pickup models. This new system features an integrated under-dash hydraulic master cylinder and a bolt-in clutch pedal, which allows for easy conversion to hydraulic or an automatic vehicle to manual if so desired. This system includes every fitting, line, and part necessary for full installation.
American Powertrain
931-646-4836
americanpowertrain.com
This system features the 6-piston, 6P caliper mounted to a 14-inch, two-piece slotted and drilled zinc-plated rotor. Billet aluminum hubs come assembled with premium bearings, and rotors are pre-assembled with NAS high-grade stainless hardware. All mounting brackets, stainless braided hoses, and hardware are included and come assembled on modified stock spindles. Designed to fit most 18-inch or larger wheels.
Baer
602-233-1411
baer.com
Feature Stories
A Few Lights Make This Silverado Shine There are all walks of life submerged deep inside the truck culture from law enforcement to military personnel—it’s… Continue reading
PHIL GORDAN . December 18, 2024
OBS Builders Guide
Brik Yrd, a ’99 Suburban, Gets a Facelift First impressions are everything, especially in the truck and custom paint world. Nothing stands out more on… Continue reading
BRANDON BURRELL . November 21, 2023
Events
Thanks to Jackery for sponsoring today’s video! In celebration of Jackery’s 9th anniversary, get 15% off sitewide from Oct. 18th to Oct. 20th. Click here:… Continue reading
Adam Johnson . October 18, 2021
New Products
A side-by-side comparison of Fox Performance Elite and King shocks Whether you’ve just purchased your first off-road vehicle or are looking to upgrade the truck… Continue reading
Kelly Nomura . December 15, 2023
Diesel World
01. QUADZILLA ADRENALINE AND INJECTOR PERFORMANCE BUNDLE Looking for a little more out of your VP truck? This bundle is for you! Starting at $975.00,… Continue reading
Tucker Harris . January 29, 2024
Diesel World
01. ARP Introduces New Rod Bolt Kit for Ford 6.7L PowerStroke Ford’s popular 6.7L PowerStroke diesel engine, employed in 2011-present F-series pickup trucks, can now… Continue reading
Tucker Harris . February 02, 2024
Please wait...
Share Link