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The Ultimate C10 Makeover: Joshua Steele’s Masterpiece

Corey Decker . October 22, 2024 . Buyer’s Guides
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Joshua Steele’s C10 Build

Joshua Steele is a prominent figure in the custom automotive industry, renowned for his lifelong dedication to crafting exceptional vehicles. His journey spans from competitive drifting circuits to constructing rugged off-road trucks for Nevrslo Motorsports, where he also races trophy trucks. Joshua’s diverse background infuses every project with a unique blend of experience and passion. His latest endeavor focuses on transforming a classic C10 pickup into what he feels is the way it should have been on the showroom floor—a testament to his talent and unwavering dedication to the craft.

The Ultimate Barn Find

The story begins with an extraordinary discovery: a 1983 C10 pickup with a storied past. Originally painted red, the truck underwent a unique transformation when the dealership repainted it black upon purchase. After just a year of use, the original owner fell ill and shortly passed but not before storing the truck, where it lay untouched for an astonishing 35 years.

Decades  later, the truck passed to the original owner’s son, who drove it sparingly before consigning it once more to storage. It was in this state that Joshua Steele encountered the vehicle, recognizing its immense potential as a canvas for his creativity and expertise.

Building the Beast

Joshua embarked on a restoration and enhancement process, aiming to breathe new life into the C10. Under the hood, the truck received a robust 350 engine boasting a polished and balanced crankshaft, a custom roller camshaft, port-polished heads, and a Speed Masters intake manifold. The fuel system underwent a significant overhaul with the installation of a Quick Fuel SS Series carburetor, complemented by Patriot headers and a bespoke custom exhaust system. Ignition duties were entrusted to an MSD system, coupled with a GM Turbo 350 performance transmission, a 2200 power stall converter, and a B&M shift kit. To optimize the truck’s stance for performance, the driveshaft was meticulously crafted with a reduced diameter. The entire build was supported by a comprehensive GSI chassis, providing a stable foundation that enhances both performance and reliability.

Interior Upgrades

While preserving much of the truck’s original charm, Joshua upgraded the interior with AutoMeter gauges, seamlessly blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary functionality. The result is an interior that honors the truck’s heritage while meeting the demands of modern performance standards.

By combining classic elements with modern enhancements, he has created a vehicle that  not only pays homage to its roots but also embraces the future of automotive customization.

A Happy End

Joshua Steele’s transformation of this C10 from a forgotten relic into a custom powerhouse is a testament to his expertise and passion. By combining classic elements with modern enhancements, he has created a vehicle that not only pays homage to its roots but also embraces the future of automotive customization. This build stands as a shining example of Joshua’s skill and dedication, inspiring enthusiasts in the custom truck community to pursue their own automotive dreams.


BUILD SPECS

OWNER

  • Joshua Steele
  • Wife’s  Name: Ryan Steele
  • Truck Name: The Outsider
  • Vehicle (year): 1983
  • Make: Chevy
  • Model: C10
  • Color: Black

EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

  • Grille: OEM
  • Bumpers: OEM
  • Wheelwell Modifications: VanNatta wheel tubs
  • Additional Lights: OEM
  • Color and Type of Paint: Originally red, repainted black in 1983
  • Painter: Owner

ENGINE INFORMATION

  • Year: 2023
  • Make: Chevy
  • Type: V8
  • Displacement: 350 cubic inches
  • Engine Buildup/Modifications Done By: Joshua Steele (Nevrslo Motorsports)
  • Balanced: Yes
  • Blueprinted: Yes
  • Connecting Rods: Eagle
  • Pistons: Eagle
  • Rings: Total Seal
  • Compression Ratio: 10:1
  • Other Bottom End modifications: Polished & balanced crank
  • Camshaft: Custom roller
  • Lift: 22
  • Duration: 36
  • Head Modifications: Ported & polished
  • Intake Manifold: Speed Masters High Rise
  • Carburetor: Quick Fuel SS Series
  • Headers: Patriot, 1 5/8-inch
  • Exhaust System: Custom  2.5-inch
  • Ignition: MSD V8 Pro Billet

DRIVETRAIN

  • Transmission: GM TH350 Performance
  • Custom Torque Converter: TCI, Stall Speed: 2200 RPM
  • Internal Trans Modifications: B&M shift kit
  • Driveshaft/U-Joint Modifications: Cali Drive Shaft Shop (undersized diameter for better clearance)
  • Rear Drive Axle: Currie 9-inch
  • Limited Slip or Locker: LSD
  • Other Drivetrain modification: 4-link w/ billet Watts link w/ FK rod ends

WHEELS/TIRES/BRAKES

  • Brakes: OEM
  • Master Cylinder: OEM
  • Chassis
  • Frame: OEM
  • Frame Modifications: Full Front GSI subframe air ride, full GSI rear back half air ride
  • Frame Modifications Done By: Joshua Steele (Neverslo Motorsports)
  • Suspension Components Installed by: Joshua Steele
  • Steering Box: Mustang II rack
  • Tires: Falken FK510
  • Wheels: 20-inch Detroit Steel Delray
  • Fuel Tank: GSI fuel cell
  • Other Chassis Notes: Frame chopped at cab, GSI full back half air ride

INTERIOR

  • Seats: OEM
  • Upholstery: OEM
  • Instrumentation/Gauges: OEM/AutoMeter
  • Unique Interior Features: Cut out and removed OEM “Dummy Lights” and inserted AutoMeter water temp, tach, oil, battery

 

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