This will be the mildest, least expensive build I have done in many years. The core is a 2010 Chevy Colorado "donated" to the cause

Please check back often as the project develops. Photos and details beginning soon.

Looking forward to seeing the build as it progresses, Larry. Saw you and the Lamplighter Camaro team at XRP a week or so ago, meant to stop by and introduce myself, but was rather busy.
I think it is great that you share your builds, and help keep the sport alive by introducing kids & grandkids to drag racing.

Foot, we will be at XRP from time to time, so please look us up. We were busy also working on a driving left situation and too much wheelie. We have both corrected now.

The plan is to use as many bolt-on parts as possible without cutting or modification. CalTracs, 29.5 x 10.5 radial, steel wheels, all OE sheet metal, bench seat. Conventional first-gen SBC, powerglide, 12 bolt rear narrowed as needed.

Working on a truck is a beautiful thing! Remove the bed, complete access to modifying the rear suspension. After a time of thought, I plan to install a set of ladder bars. They will do everything I want in this situation. I will also install them about 4" inboard of the factory frame so that if in the future I want a larger tire it will be an easy upgrade. Installing a Chevy 12 bolt will also be part of this exercise.

Here she is on my trusty, home-built tables that allow placing components at ride height and allowing a good view of the fitment.

By tha way, hardcore builders[especially those who are old and fat,] require a lift for convenient working height.

Some notes, as I begin this project, I recognize the Colorado/Canyon as a good package. It has a full-frame, rack and pinion steering, coil-over front spring with a-arms, it is overall about 3" wider and 3" longer than the S-10. I expect it to be a very nice footbraker.

This shows the front springs removed so the suspension can be positioned at ride height.

The chassis is blocked at one degree forward rake.

The chassis is blocked level.

nice work as always Larry

Thanks, Ed. Please stay tuned. I look forward to seeing which family members take to it.

I will and we will.

When converting a factory stock truck to a drag race truck, it is necessary to turn all bolts anti-clockwise. Later, after modifying each piece, bolts can be turned clockwise.

anti-clockwise

turning bolts

Some hot rod prep work is not fun. This shows an old Chevelle 12 bolt going under the blade with removing brackets and a rough cut to length.

12 bolt cuts

We are beginning the frame modification. The new section will be 5 1/2" inboard of the original frame. Once both new sections are properly installed and aligned, the original frame will be cut away. Having the OE frame remaining in place gives a good fixture for accurate alignment.

Where’s the like button! Can’t wait to see it finished. Always good work, Larry!