After the employees and J&F swarmed the Chevy in a fit of deconstruction, J&F sent the chassis and some underhood components to Miller's Powdercoating. The original, 3.73:1-geared rear axle went to Southern Gear for a full rebuild. To the powdercoated 'rails, the crew installed Classic Performance Products two-inch drop spindles, a CPP ventilated and slotted disc brake kit, and a CPP 1.25-inch antisway bar. A Rez Engineering power steering kit solved the Chevy's slow, heavy steering. For the truck's rear, a CPP four-inch drop spring kit gave the renewed differential the desired rakish hauler ride height. Helo chrome mag wheels, 17x8 inches all-around, have a four-inch backspace, and were shod with Toyo Proxis radials, 255/60R17s and 275/55R17s front to rear, respectively. Instead of keeping the smelly and unsafe in-cab fuel tank, J&F opted to install a No Limit Engineering 19-gallon stainless steel tank behind the differential and under the bed.
A new 330-horsepower, Holley 600-cfm-carbed GM 350ci crate engine and fresh TCI 700R4 trans now occupy the restored front 'rails. While several employees installed the drivetrain, others performed considerable bodywork and paint prep. Mike Henson laid down the PPG Copperhead Pearl paint. Once the paint cured, Peachtree Glass installed a new windshield.
J&F's employees finished off the Chevy by wiring the truck with an EZ Wiring 21-circuit harness and trimming the bucket seats and center console with brown leather hides. A Vintage Air HVAC system and a complete stereo system made the shortbed Chevy an acoustically and climactically comfortable place to be.
We commend Fred Hatcher and Jerry Glore for keeping their employees on-hand with a worthwhile build project. The crew did such a good job, perhaps J&F have found a successful side business. Oh, and Fred, thanks for the photos. Here's your payment.