truck

THE
SUV ISSUE:
24 Pages of Insane
Customs
CES
SHOW COVERAGE
12-VOLT
NEW
PRODUCTS
First Look:
2019 Ram 1500:
Mopar Special
MASSIVE 12-VOLT SPECIAL!
HIGH TECH OR BIG BASS—
INSTALLATIONS FROM MILD TO WILD

Table of Contents Volume 44, NO. 07
DEPARTMENTS:
The Eleventh Hour 8
New Products 12
Radical Renderings 18
Factory Fresh 20
Busted Knuckles 24
Show Calendar 82
Coming Next Month 82
TRUCKIN.COM:
Plenty of web-exclusive content,
information on upcoming events,
forums, blogs, and much more.
FACEBOOK/
TWITTER:
Polls, contests, behind-thescenes
photos, ramblings from
the editors. Get some!
ON THE COVER:
SUVs are often overlooked as
custom truck candidates, but
we have noticed an extremely
strong comeback as of late. Fine
examples grace both our covers
this month: the sky-high Escalade
shot by John O’Neill and the twodoor
Tahoe by Phil Gordon.
FEATURES:
Maleicent Intentions...................................28
This ’16 Cadillac Escalade is raising the bar
for KEG Media once again
Built By Brothers ................................................36
Coming together for the greater good—
and an ’00 Chevy Tahoe
SPECIAL FEATURE:
CES Success ..............................................................44
The 2018 Consumer Electronics Show
MINI TRUCKIN’:
Dad Van.........................................................................50
When life hands you a child, get an ’00 GMC Envoy
CLASSIC TRUCKIN:
El Broncero............................................................... 58
An El Camino and ’85 Ford Bronco hybrid
TECH:
Theft Recovery .....................................................64
Alpine Electronics’ new Halo9 updates
the Truckin F-150
Project Over-Under: Part One................70
Audiotistics brings technology and bass to our
standard cab Silverado
Next-Level Audio Installation............. 76
Building an amp rack for show points and big bass
36
44
58
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [4] MAY 17, 2018 -

UP
TO
$ 150 REWARD *
ON A SET OF 4 MICKEY THOMPSON LIGHT TRUCK TIRES AND WHEELS.
$50 REWARD / ALL WHEELS $ 100 REWARD / ALL TIRES
Receive a $100.00 Mail-in-Reward with the purchase of any four Mickey Thompson Light Truck Tires. Receive a $50.00 Mail-in-Reward with the
purchase of any four Mickey Thompson Light Truck wheels. Receive up to $150.00 on a set of four Mickey Thompson Light Truck Tires and Wheels.*
OFFER VALID 3/1/2018-5/15/2018. *SEE MICKEYTHOMPSONTIRES.COM FOR DETAILS.
MICKEYTHOMPSONTIRES.COM

What’s On Demand This Month?
Racing; Original Programs
April 20 ........................................Junkyard Gold, Episode 7
April 23 ................................... Roadkill Garage, Episode 29
April 25 ....................................Engine Masters, Episode 34
April 27 .................................Put Up or Shut Up, Episode 11
April 30 ................................................ Roadkill, Episode 81
May 2 .................................................. Ignition, Episode 191
May 4 ..........................................Dirt Every Day, Episode 76
May 7 .....................................HOT ROD Garage, Episode 65
May 9 ......................................... Head 2 Head, Episode 101
May 14 ................................................. Roadkill, Episode 82
* The program information provided is subject to change.
EDITORIAL
Network Content Director Sean P. Holman
Editor Jeremy Cook
Managing Editor Courtney McKinnon
Staff Editor Brett Evans
ART DIRECTION & DESIGN
Design Director Rob Munoz
TRUCK TREND NETWORK ON THE WEB
www.truckinweb.com • www.dieselpowermag.com
www.trucktrend.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Please call TRUCKIN Advertising Department, (949)
705-3179. Related publications: Automobile, Car Craft,
Chevy High Performance, Classic Trucks, Diesel Power,
4-Wheel & Off-Road, Four Wheeler, Hot Rod, Hot Rod
Deluxe, JP, Lowrider, Mopar Muscle, Motor Trend,
Muscle Car Review, Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords,
Mustang Monthly, Recoil, Street Rodder, Super Chevy,
Super Street, Truck Trend, and Vette.
BACK ISSUES: To order back issues, visit
TENbackissues.com
REPRINTS: For high-quality custom reprints and
eprints, please contact The YGS Group at (800) 290-
5460 or TENreprnts@theyegsgroup.com
SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
E-mail to truckin@emailcustomerservice.com, or call
(800) 777-5182 or (386) 447-6385, or write to Truckin,
P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235. Please
include name, address, and phone number on any
inquiries.
Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses
to IMEX Global Solutions, P.O. Box 25542, London,
ON N6C 6B2.
Occasionally our subscriber list is made available to
reputable irms offering goods and services we believe
would be of interest to our readers. If you prefer to be
excluded, please send your current address label and a
note requesting to be excluded from these promotions
to TEN: Publishing Media, LLC, 831 S. Douglas St., El
Segundo, CA 90245, Attn: Privacy Coordinator.
Copyright © 2018 by
TEN: Publishing Media, LLC
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED PRINTED IN THE U.S.A
ADVERTISING
General Manager Jerome Dziechiasz
Network Advertising Maher Boulos
Director
Eastern Sales Director Michael Essex (863) 860-6023
Western Sales Director Scott Timberlake (310) 531-5969
Advertising Operations Monica Hernandez
Manager
Advertising Coordinator Gail Burns
To advertise on this magazine’s website, or any of TEN:
Publishing Media’s other enthusiast sites, please contact us
at AM-advertising@enthusiastnetwork.com
SALES OFFICES WEST
Los Angeles: 831 S. Douglas St., El Segundo, CA 90245
(310) 531-9900
Irvine: 1821 E. Dyer Rd., Ste. 150, Santa Ana, CA 92705
(949) 705-3100
EAST
New York: 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 18th Floor,
New York, NY 10036
(212) 915-4000
NORTH
Detroit: 4327 Delemere Court, Royal Oak, MI 48073
(248) 594-5999
SOUTHEAST
(813) 675-3479
SOUTHWEST
(626) 695-5950
TEN PUBLISHING MEDIA, LLC
Chairman
President
SVP, Editorial &
Advertising Operations
General Manager, Aftermarket
Automotive Network
General Manager, In-Market
Automotive Network
Greg Mays
Kevin Mullan
Amy Diamond
Tim Foss
Maria Jamison
CONSUMER MARKETING, ENTHUSIAST MEDIA
SUBSCRIPTION COMPANY, INC.
SVP, Circulation Tom Slater
VP, Retention & Donald T. Robinson III
Operations Fulillment
VP, Acquisition & Database Victoria Linehan
Marketing
VP, Newsstand Retail Sales William Carter
TEN: A DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS
COMPANY
Chairman/CEO Michael Lang
President Scott P. Dickey
President, Velocity & Robert Scanlon
Programming
EVP, Digital Media Scott Bailey
Group SVP, Sales Eric Schwab
Managing Director, Jerry Solomon
Studio TEN
SVP, Branded Content Bobby Akin
SVP, Aftermarket Media Matt Boice
SVP, Aftermarket David Freiburger
Automotive Content
SVP, In-Market Ed Loh
Automotive Content
SVP, Digital Geoff DeFrance
SVP, OTT Product & Tech Pepper Chiavacci
SVP, Marketing Ryan Payne
VP, Human Resources David Hope
VP, Finance/Controller Shilpa Joshi
www.MotorTrendOnDemand.com

The Eleventh Hour
EDITOR: JEREMY COOK
Everlasting
BASS
E
very
year, when the Consumer Electronics Show
rolls around, I start to get excited. Not because of the
show—because most of the time I don’t even go—but
for a couple of other reasons. One is all the-new
technology that hits the streets, which means a lot of press
releases hit my inbox, letting me know about the latest and
greatest 12-volt products out there. But also because we build
our whole issue around the show. That means in addition to the
event coverage and a whole bunch of new products, which are
conveniently compiled in a section called New Products, we
also dedicate all of our tech installations to audio- or 12-volt–
related products. This month, we have a state-of-the-art install
from Alpine, an amp rack build for a massive system, and a
basic (sort of) install of a head unit, separates, amp, and sub.
I’m not sure what it is, but nothing else gets me giddy like a
school girl in this business like hearing some big bass coming
out of a truck. As much as I like to see a truck dragging down the
road throwing sparks or a fresh off-road build hitting the trails,
it just doesn’t quite tap into that emotion. And to be perfectly
honest, I’m not very much of an audiophile at all.
I built my very irst speaker box when I was 14. I didn’t even
have my irst VW yet. But since I knew that’s what I would soon
be getting, I took measurements from a friend’s car in my high
school parking lot and got to work. I didn’t even know the merits
of “particle board” at the time. I thought using plywood was a
good idea. I built the rectangle box with 1x2 braces in the corners.
And are you ready for this? My dad had a stockpile of brand-new
factory 6x8s, not even 6x9s, so I cut holes for four of them, evenly
spaced across the front of the box. I think my last step was the
best: I painted the box to “seal” it, inside and out, with several
coats of white house paint. Looking back, it was free, it sort of
worked, and now it seems pretty hilarious. I moved on to bigger
and better ideas by the time I had a car that ran, but that box
ended up in my surfer buddy’s Squareback for quite a while.
Fast-forward a couple of years, and I began to meet some of
the heavies in the car audio game, since my friend’s shop, Fine
Line, was located next to Sound Decision, a high-end audio
place owned by Lee Bower. He came from Audio Chamber and
once had his yellow Toyota on the cover of Truckin, flanked
by local high school cheerleaders. Bob Grant just reminded
me that same truck was in the “Cars That Go Boom” video by
L’Trimm, but I digress. So I was seeing all these top-quality systems,
but I was still broke. I pieced together a system that ended
up getting swapped between my Blazer and a few different
Volkswagens several times. I’m pretty sure it was a Kenwood
head unit, and I have no idea what the component speakers
were. But the star of the show was a giant Coustic amp that
probably made about half of whatever giant number of watts it
was touting (800, I think), and two 10-inch MTX Thunder boxes.
I’m sure it sounded like crap by today’s standards, but man I
thought I was the s%$# cruising in the Blazer with the top off
and the Beastie Boys’ “Licensed to Ill” at full volume.
So I guess that’s what it is—being reminded of my golden days
and simpler times and all that other stuff old people say all the
time. But it worked. Each of the three stories you’ll find in this issue
evokes that feeling I get when we fire up the system and begin
to get the tuning dialed in. It’s one of the coolest things ever,
and it really never gets old
Keep on Truckin’
—JC
We want to hear from you! Please send any questions, comments, or concerns to editorsinbox@truckin.com.
- VOLUME 44, NO.07, [8] MAY 17, 2018 -

AlloyCover
Made in USA
SEE OUR FULL LINE OF AUTOMOTIVE ACCESSORIES AT WEATHERTECH.COM
FloorLiner
Seat Protector
Sunroof Wind Deflector
Stone & Bug Deflector
Order Now: 800-441-6287
American Customers
WeatherTech.com
Canadian Customers
WeatherTech.ca
European Customers
WeatherTech.eu
Accessories Available for: Acura · Alfa Romeo · Aston Martin · Audi · BMW · Buick · Cadillac · Chevrolet · Chrysler · Dodge · Ferrari · Fiat · Ford · Genesis · GMC · Honda
Hummer · Hyundai · Infi niti · Isuzu · Jaguar · Jeep · Kia · Land Rover · Lexus · Lincoln · Maserati · Mazda · Mercedes-Benz · Mercury · Mini · Mitsubishi · Nissan · Oldsmobile
Plymouth · Pontiac · Porsche · RAM · Saab · Saturn · Scion · Smart · Subaru · Suzuki · Tesla · Toyota · Volkswagen · Volvo and more!
© 2018 by MacNeil IP LLC

1,500+ BRANDS • GET THE PARTS YOU WANT FAST AND FOR LESS!

Tricked out Truck Perfection.
UNBEATABLE SERVICE, TECH ADVICE, SATISFACTION, AND SELECTION.
Call by 10 pm EST: In-Stock Parts Shipped That Day!
1.800.230.3030 • Int’l: 1.330.630.0230
SCode: 1807TR • Prices subject to change without notice. Please check SummitRacing.com for current pricing.
Typographical, description, or photography errors are subject to correction. Some parts are not legal for use in California
or other states with similar laws/regulations. Please check your state and/or local laws/regulations. © 2018 AUTOSALES, INC.
FIND IT AT

New Products
BY BRYAN FROSS
PHOTOGRAPHY: MANUFACTURERS
Easy Connectivity
Who: Pioneer
What: Multimedia In-Dash A/V Receivers
Why: Pioneer Electronics is making it even easier to improve your
in-vehicle connectivity with its two new multimedia A/V receivers, which
provide great entertainment options at a consumer-friendly price. The
AVH-201EX and AVH-200EX double-DIN 6.2-inch models are the first of
Pioneer’s new line of 2018 in-dash multimedia receivers.
Where: 800.421.1404; pioneerelectronics.com.
Stealth Boom
Who: JL Audio
What: Stealthbox Subwoofer System
Why: GM truck and SUV owners who desire more bass performance than what’s
supplied by the factory system can now have what they crave with JL Audio’s
compact Stealthbox subwoofer system. It’s designed to fit inside the front center
console, without afecting cupholders or storage space in the Tahoe, Suburban,
and Yukon, as well as the Silverado and Sierra. Equipped with a single JL Audio
10-inch TW1 subwoofer, it delivers extraordinary deep bass with zero compromise
in vehicle comfort or function, and complete invisibility. There is also a model for
the Colorado and Canyon crew cab that fits under the rear bench seat.
Where: 954.443.1100; jlaudio.com
12-Volt Special
Safety With Style
Who: Grant Products
What: Airbag Steering Wheels
Why: This is a fresh take on your late-model truck’s old,
worn-out, airbag-equipped steering wheel. These leatherwrapped
steering wheels measure 15.5 inches in diameter.
They have a comfortable leather binding that increases grip
to make tackling tight turns and winding roads a breeze.
Installation is quick and seamless, with an easy-to-follow
instruction guide or online video tutorial.
Where: 800.230.3030; summitracing.com
Power Shift
Who: Phoenix Gold
What: Ti3 Amplifiers
Why: These amplifiers are ushering in a new era for
Phoenix Gold, with bold designs and an old-school flavor—
add to that cutting-edge features, system flexibility, and lots
and lots of power. Power Shift allows you to direct power
where it is needed. Active system design has never been
easier. Power output can be redirected to the channels
that can best utilize it. The amps include a precision
signal control center with 24dB Linkwitz-Riley crossovers
for precise frequency control, matched input level for
(Phase) compensation of vehicle acoustics and subwoofer
placement, and a 24dB adjustable subsonic filter to optimize
speaker and enclosure efficiency. Bass shift can be adjusted
from the listening position via the included
controller.
Where: 800.477.2267; phoenixgold.com
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [12] MAY 17, 2018 -

Accessory Control
Upgrades Simplified
Who: PAC Audio
What: AmpPRO
Why: This factory sound system upgrade
solution has allowed many PAC customers
to dramatically improve the sound in
vehicles while retaining the factory
radio fit, finish, and features. Options
for Ford, GM, Chrysler, and Toyota are
currently ofered or will be released. PAC
engineered the AmpPRO to simplify the
installation of upgraded amplifiers in databus–controlled
amplified sound systems.
Where: 800.477.2267; pac-audio.com
Who: AEV
What: Switch Pod for Ram Trucks
Why: Auxiliary driving lights, an LED lightbar,
front and rear lockers, and an on-board air
compressor are all common upgrades for any
of-road enthusiast. AEV’s Switch Pod for the ’09-
to-’18 Ram 1500 and ’10-and-up Ram 2500/3500
is designed for the DIY installer who is looking for
a clean, functional mounting location for up to six
auxiliary switches. Specifically molded to fit the
contours of the Ram’s dashboard without being
too obtrusive, this switch pod sits just above the
radio, keeping all your important switches safely
within arm’s reach. The AEV Switch Pod is painted
black to match the Ram’s dark interior trim pieces
but can be custom painted to match any color
combination. Installation is very straightforward
and will take less than an hour on most trucks.
Where: 248.926.0256; aev-conversions.com
See Clearly
Who: Rigid Industries
What: Ford Light Kits
Why: Rigid Industries’ new Ford Raptor and
Super Duty light kits with D-Series or SR-Series
lights are abrasion-resistant to hold up against
all the elements you throw at them. They
are also lightweight, UV-resistant, and made
in the U.S.A. The Stealth mount kits feature
laser-cut stainless steel construction and a
black powdercoat finish to match the lights for
a seamless look.
Where: 855.760.5337; rigidindustries.com
Amplify & Clarify
Who: Kicker Audio
What: The Key Smart Amplifier
Why: This is a smart amplifier and audio
processor in one. Don’t just make your
system louder—make it clearer. The
Key Smart amplifier uses a powerful
internal computer to deliver dramatic
improvements in realism and soundstage.
A massive 40-band equalizer improves
tonality. A 24dB crossover redefines the
capabilities of each speaker, and time
alignment delivers unheard realism. The
concert quality of your factory stereo is
revealed! What would take hours for a
professional to achieve takes place in a
matter of minutes—automatically and at
the push of a single button.
Where: 405.624.8510; kickeraudio.com
Big Face, Tight Space
Who: Alpine Electronics
What: iLX-F309 Hovering Receiver
Why: The Halo9 is an AM/FM audio/video
receiver with a 9-inch WVGA touchscreen
that uses a single-DIN chassis for
installation, but the screen “hovers” in front
of the vehicle’s dash, allowing the oversize
screen to be added to a variety of vehicles
without the need for custom installation. It is
feature-packed with everything you need to
play your audio/video content from multiple
sources. The iLX-F309’s “Halo9” nickname
is descriptive for the screen’s unique
hovering position and its 9-inch size.
Where: 800.257.4631; alpine-usa.com
Ear Candy
Who: Kenwood
What: Hi-Res Amplifiers and Separates
Why: Kenwood is adding a pair of multichannel
amplifiers as well as two sets of component speakers
(which are fully capable of reproducing the extendedrange
audio as it was originally intended) to its Hi-Res
Audio lineup. The addition of these models allows
a premium audio experience for music lovers and
audiophiles. The XR901-5 is a five-channel amplifier
producing 60 watts RMS from each of four channels
with the remaining channel providing 400 watts
RMS at 4 ohms to a subwoofer. The XR401-4 is a fourchannel
structure that can be reconfigured to two or
three channels.
The newest separates are specially designed to
fit into most factory locations and still deliver a Hi-Res
Audio–compliant frequency response of 25 kHz to 48
kHz. The XR-1603HR includes a 6.5-inch midrange,
while the XR-1703HR features a 6.75-inch design. Both
are partnered with a 1-inch, silk-dome tweeter with
adjustable surface-mount options.
Where: 800.950.5005; kenwood.com/usa
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [13] MAY 17, 2018 -

Radical Renderings
BY BRYAN FROSS
RENDERINGS: TRISTAN PENGELLY
H
ockey isn’t the only “cool”
thing coming out of Canada
these days. Tristan Pengelly
is the owner of Renderings
by Tristan located in Langley, British
Columbia, and he creates computerdrawn
renderings from completely stock
vehicles to wild, one-of custom creations.
His digitally drawn artwork is produced
with the most attention to detail possible
for his clients’ wants and needs. If you
take a look through his social media accounts,
you’ll ind muscle cars, tuners, hot
rods, classics, mini-trucks, and, of course,
a ton of various truck designs. If you want
to see what your ride might look like, it
can be done—from late-model builds with
a lift kit and big tires to full custom styling
cues the manufacturer never thought
possible when the vehicle rolled of the
assembly line. These renderings have
been used to build many vehicles for
shows all across North America, including
several years of the annual SEMA
show, where the best of the best debut.
Even if you aren’t going to build it, Tristan
can create something of your liking for
garage art or framing. If you’re looking to
get a ride digitally created for a project, for
fun, or for hanging on your wall, contact
him at renderingsbytristan.com or
RenderingsByTristan@hotmail.com.
If you’re going to build something cool out of what was initially a commercial vehicle, this is deinitely
the way to go. Extreme Performance located in Palm City, Florida, took on this one-of-a-kind ’49 Mack
EG build. From the ground up, this ’49 will have a one-off Roadster Shop Fast Track Stage 3 chassis
featuring Penske coilovers, a rear four-link, Strange Engineering Ford 9-inch rear housing, and six-piston
Baer brakes rolling on Detroit Steel Wheels. Between the front rails, a 502 GM crate engine combined
with a 700R4 transmission will power the inished project. The exterior appearance will remain
somewhat factory looking, with many subtle tweaks to smooth out and match the bodylines after a
bed from GM’s Advance-Design–era pickup is added. The paint color designated for this truck is called
Silver Bullet from Axalta’s Mobsteel Signature Series. Extreme Paint Shop is completing the extensive
fabrication, body, and paint work. Interior mods are also on the list, including redesigned loorboards to
accommodate air-ride–equipped seats, a Restomod air-conditioning system, and a full reimagining of
the cabin by Avant-Garde Design using CAD-drawn, CNC-cut composite plastics and custom stitching.
After its initial life as a movie star, including an appearance in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, this
’72 Suburban Ambulance is being reborn as a Las Vegas Raiders welcome wagon. By the time the NFL
franchise moves to Sin City, this custom three-door will be painted to match the iconic silver and black
from the Raiders helmet while having fully airbrushed logos on the hood, doors, and rear barn doors.
Before it’s ready to roll down the strip, it will receive a custom suspension using Belltech spindles/
springs and CPP tubular control arms, a 350 crate engine, Turbo 400 transmission, and 20-inch, eightlug
Detroit Steel Wheels (which will be the irst of their kind going onto the Suburban). Other additions
include Vintage Air A/C, ididit steering column, Kicker audio, Grifin radiator, Flowmaster exhaust, and
Dakota Digital VHX gauges.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [18] MAY 17, 2018 -

Factory Fresh
BY BRETT T. EVANS
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS
2019 Ram
1500 With
Mopar
Accessories
The All-New
Ram 1500
Is a Looker—
Especially
With Some
In-House
Magic
U
nveiled at the 2018 North American International
Auto Show in Detroit, Mighigan, the ’19 Ram 1500
was one of the most significant debuts in the Motor
City. But in this business, the news cycle is short, so
the Ram brand (together with in-house parts and accessories
arm Mopar) trotted out a fire engine red example at the Chicago
Auto Show, keen to keep the Ram on the radar before its on-sale
date later this year.
When it was unveiled in Detroit, we were immediately
impressed by the Ram’s smooth new bodywork and stupendous
interior. Longer, lower, and wider than the model it replaces, the
Ram has serious road presence, in spite of the disappearance of the
imposing crosshairs grille. That’s right, from the ’19 model on, Ram
will leave that grille in the rearview mirror, replacing it with the bold
“RAM” script that appears on the current-generation truck’s Limited,
Rebel, and Sport trim levels. The hood is aluminum and the tailgate
composite to help save weight, and the new Ram is up to 120
pounds lighter than the old one (thanks mostly to an even stifer
frame rendered in lighter-weight high-strength steel).
Inside, even the base models are impressive, with pleasant
materials, comfortable seats, and even more room than
the already spacious ’18 Ram 1500. The company’s Uconnect
infotainment gets upgraded to 4C-spec for the ’19, a fancy way of
saying there are more features, better displays, improved voice
recognition, and more in the new system. The top-dog Ram 1500
Limited (and other high trims) gets a massive 12-inch center
touchscreen, oriented vertically like the Tesla Model X. The
display can be configured in several different ways, including
a split-screen layout that shows both audio and navigation, for
example. Elsewhere in the cabin is genuine leather, wood, and
metal trim, giving other trucks (and even many luxury vehicles)
a run for their money in terms of quality and style.
Under the hood, the ’19 Ram 1500 comes with either the
familiar 5.7L Hemi V-8 or a 3.6L V-6. Furthermore, both engines
can be had with the company’s new eTorque mild-hybrid system
(standard on the V-6 and optional on the V-8). The system runs of
a belt-start generator that replaces the alternator, enabling engine
idle stop, short-duration boost, and brake regeneration. Ram says
eTorque can add up to 90 lb-t to the V-6’s output and 130 lb-t to
the V-8’s when starting from a standstill. That’ll be a boon to RVers,
boaters, stump pullers, and red light racers alike. All powertrains
are mated to eight-speed automatic transmissions, with the V-8
getting a version rated for that engine’s increased torque output.
The Ram 1500 Rebel returns for 2019,
and this time, it will be available in
more body styles and configurations.
Don’t expect its of-road prowess to
diminish one bit.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [20] MAY 17, 2018 -

Factory Fresh 2019 Ram 1500
Mopar began work on the parts catalog for the all-new ’19
Ram 1500 well before it was unveiled, and the parts division
took advantage of the Chicago Auto Show to boast of their work.
The truck revealed in the Windy City was a Big Horn Sport 4x4
in Flame Red, to which Mopar engineers added at least a dozen
interior, exterior, and performance accessories.
Most obviously, the bed gets an all-new Ram Rack cargo
management system, which mates the Ram’s available utility
bedrails to two cab-height spars that adjust fore and aft. As
shown on the Chicago Auto Show truck, Ram Rack makes
it easier to carry long cargo, like ladders or canoes, without
resorting to hanging stuff off the truck’s tailgate.
Also on the show truck are Mopar 18-inch beadlock-capable
wheels mounted to 35-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
tires. Mopar off-road fender flares, rendered in black, prevent offroad
damage. A skid-resistant set of low-profile, body-length running
boards helps improve cab access while preserving ground
clearance. Off-road performance is pushed further thanks to a
2-inch Mopar lift kit.
Under the hood is a Ram Airflow accessory cold-air intake,
helping maximize the performance of the truck’s 390hp
5.7L Hemi V-8 engine. That engine exhales through a Mopar
Performance cat-back exhaust system that exits through wellintegrated
5-inch dual exhaust tips. Inside, there are a few Mopar
touches, namely the stainless steel doorsill plates, all-weather
floormats, and premium Katzkin leather seats.
Overall, there’s a lot to like about the new Ram 1500. The
smooth styling might be a bit more anonymous than before, but
it’s undeniably classy and attractive. The interior is a home run,
with amazing materials, a modern design, and state-of-the-art
infotainment options. And the powertrain is more efficient and
harder working than before, thanks to that eTorque mild hybrid
system. Add in a few Mopar accessories (like that tough-looking
Ram Rack and beadlock wheels), and you’ve got a recipe for one
cool dealer-fresh truck.
Longer, lower, and leaner, the new
Ram is optimized for aerodynamic
eficiency. Luckily, wind tunnels like
smooth, pretty shapes, so the truck
looks good as well.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [22] MAY 17, 2018 -

Stealthbox®
systems are
available for
your truck:
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Dodge
Ford
GMC
Hummer
Jeep
Lincoln
Nissan
Toyota
and many more...
Perfect look. Perfect fit. Perfect bass for your truck.
Superior subwoofer systems, custom-engineered and
precision-built in our Florida factory for your truck.
Toyota Tacoma
DoubleCab
Chevrolet Silverado /
GMC Sierra
Chevrolet Silverado /
GMC Sierra
Double Cab Trucks
Ford F-150
SuperCab
Find your truck here:
www.jlaudio.com/
car-audio-stealthbox
© 2018 JL AUDIO, Inc. For more information on all available Stealthbox® models, please visit your local authorized dealer or jlaudio.com.

Busted Knuckles
BY PHIL GORDON
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHIL GORDON
DEATH TRAP
READY FOR THE APOCALYPSE
M
ovies
can oten impact our lives in a
creative and positive way. And that’s
exactly what happened to Ryan
Shippy of Kansas City, Missouri. “The
movie Mad Max was just released, and I wanted to go
see it,” Ryan tells Truckin. “I was fascinated with the
mayhem and madness these vehicles symbolized.”
Ryan had a couple of trucks at his house, but one in
particular became the focus of his motivation: a ’93
Chevy Blazer S-10.
Ryan decided to start by cutting the front
fender of; when his friends got wind of his idea, they
couldn’t understand his vision. “You’re trashing this
truck,” one friend said. But all their opinions started
to change the minute Ryan fabricated a custom
snowplow. The death plow, as he calls it, consists of
the hood and bumper being cut and welded together
into a sharp, aggressive look. The next step was busting
out all the windows and giving the cage efect.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [24] MAY 17, 2018 -

Inside the Build
Year/Make/Model: ’93 Chevy S-10 Blazer
Owner and City/State: Ryan Shippy; Kansas City, Missouri
Club Affiliation: Definite Obsessions
CHASSIS:
Front Suspension: Traditional body drop, Michigan
Metalworks control arms, Michigan Metalworks notchless tie rods,
Thor Bros. upper bag cups, Airlift Dominator 2,500-pound bags
Rear Suspension: Custom three-link bag on bar built by
Coldharted Kustoms, dual black Viair 280 compressors,
2,600-pound Airlift Dominator bags, AVS 5-gallon black air tank,
Thor Bros. four-piece ¼-inch manual valves
DRIVETRAIN:
Engine: 350, full upward headers, custom shotgun scoop
Transmission: TH350
Of course, this truck needed more power if it was going to play with
the big boys, so Ryan added a V-8 to the Chevy. The interior took more
imagination and some time. Ryan went to the shop and grabbed some
rebar from concrete and started to shape it piece by piece until it started
to form the evil feel he was looking for. Rat rod–style seats were added to
complete the death vibe.
It was a long road to come up with something unique in a sea of ordinary.
Ryan wishes to thank Matt Kellam at Coldharted Kustoms for building the
custom three-link. A special thank you is given to D.J. Pugh for helping with
all the random work and providing motivation to inish the truck even when
Ryan began giving up on it. Death Trap started as something out of the box
that nobody believed would come to fruition, but Ryan proved them wrong
and made a Mad Max–style piece of rolling art.
BODY/PAINT:
Factory red with black sanded down, door handles shaved
and replaced with steel plating and chains, all side and rear
windows replaced with expanded mesh metal, 6-foot cut
sunroof, custom bobbed fenders with custom plating and
dimple dyed, hand-built front death plow with full radiator
flow and cooling, rollpan, license plate bracket frenched into
tailgate, Eyourlife 42-inch curved lightbar
INTERIOR:
Full custom metal mad scientist interior, saw blades front to
back in custom rebar console, modified Grant steering wheel
with death mask, Lokar shifter, hand-built tractor seats, Rhino
lining, battle axes built into doors, baseball bats with nails
built into sides, chainsaw in dashboard
WHEELS & TIRES:
Wheels: 15x7; Cragar smoothies, powdercoated black
with chrome spikes
Tires: P205/70R15; Firestone
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [25] MAY 17, 2018 -

SHOP BY VEHICLE OR TALK TO AN EXPERT
All-Terrain T/A KO2 Dueler A/T Revo 3
TerrainContact A/T
Fun Country
Destination A/T
Grabber APT
Wrangler MT/R
with Kevlar
Dynapro AT-M
Road Venture AT51
LTX A/T 2 Scorpion ATR Geolandar A/T G015
KMC XD134 Addict 2
17 18
KMC XD135 Grenade OR
17 18 20
KMC XD136 Panzer
17 20
KMC XD836 Fury
20 22
KMC XD837 Demodog
20
MAMBA M21
17 18 20
MAMBA M24
18 20
Helo HE907
16 17 18
Helo HE909
17 18 20
WORX 808 Beast II 8-Lug
18
WORX 812 Clash 8-Lug
18 20
WORX 813 Destroyer
18 20
Enkei Commander
17 18 20
Dick Cepek Blackout
15 16 17 18 20
Dick Cepek DC-2
15 16 17 18 20
G.A. GA640 8-Lug
16 17 18 20
G.A. GA641
16 17 18 20
G.A. GA643
16 17 18
G.A. GA643 8-Lug
16 17 18 20
BRAKES
TIRE
STORAGE
©2018 Tire Rack

DOUBLE
STANDARD
15 16 17 18
MR610
CON6
20
MR606
MESH
20
KMC XD838 Mammoth
20 22 24
Moto Metal MO983
18 20 22
Moto Metal MO986 Seige
20 22 24
Moto Metal MO990 Rotary
17 20
GRID GD10
17 18 20
UMX X109
17 18 20
UMX X110
17 18 20
W.E.R. 501 Legend II
15 16 17
W.E.R. 505 Bullet Proof
17 18 20
GRID GD07
17 18 20
GRID GD08
18 20
GRID GD09
18 20 22
Ultra Phantasm
17 18 20
Ultra Warlock
17 18 20
Ultra Menace 8-Lug
16 17 18 20
Ultra Toil
16 17
Ultra Hunter
17 18 20
Ultra Nemesis 8-Lug
17 18 20
ATX AX202
16 17 18
SUSPENSION
LIGHTING &
WIPERS
®
©2018 Tire Rack

BY MIKE ALEXANDER
PHOTOGRAPHY: JOHNNY O
Maleicent
Raising the
Bar Once
Again
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [28] MAY 17, 2018 -

Intentions
H
ow do companies continue to raise the bar and
make an impression ater more than two solid
decades in the industry? Simple: consistent
excellence and originality. While the solution
may seem easy enough, the execution is anything but. This,
however, poses no threat to Robbie and Keena Bryant. The
KEG Media power couple has seen more than 50 badass SEMA
builds, many of which ended up on the cover of your favorite
truck rag. The purple monster that doubles as Mrs. KEG Media’s
daily driver was completed for SEMA 2016. The ’16 Cadillac
Escalade was delivered in brand-new condition to ADA Ofroad
and transformed into a Cadillac SUV like no other in just four
months. As the truck would ultimately be Keena’s ride, she took
the reins of the design decisions, down to every last detail. She
aptly named the project Maleficent, seeing as it, too, bears a split
personality between beauty and beast.
The primary customization to the GM chassis came by
way of a full conversion to a coilover suspension setup.
The unique arrangement is comprised of multiple top-shelf
components. First to be installed was a Cognito Motorsports
10-inch independent front suspension lit, which includes
custom upper control arms combined with a Stryker Of Road
Design four-link rear suspension. The front and rear are tied
together with a custom center cradle. Sitting at each corner is
a Stryker FOA coilover setup. The suspension design and build
was a team efort between Stryker Of Road Design and ADA
Ofroad. The fully customized suspension is coated in Prismatic
Powders Illusion Purple, thanks to G2 Customz Powdercoating.
Finally, the intricate details of the world-class fabrication are
illuminated by LED rock lights from All Out Industries.
Sitting beneath the massive lift are equally impressive
custom forged wheels. The American Force GripSS6
monoblock wheels measure an impressive 24x14 inches. The
deep lip is made even more dramatic by the optical effect of a
mirror-polished finish. The kickass custom Forces are paired
with ultra-aggressive 375/40R24 Nitto Trail Grapplers. Binding
the wheels to the hubs are V&V Concepts extended spike lugs,
and between the blade-like spokes of the polished wheels,
viewers get a glimpse of the massive R1 Concepts brakes. The
big brake kit helps to bring this beast to a halt and tame the
power beneath the hood.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [29] MAY 17, 2018 -

Maleficent Intentions
The ’16 Cadillac features the General Motors 6.2L LS3 V-8. The
modern icon of a motor is plenty capable of powering the Caddy,
even in its lifted state. But this is a SEMA truck, after all, and
what’s the harm in a little bit of boost? The powerplant features
a ProCharger P1SC kit with a K&N intake. The truck is running on
a custom tune mapped by Nick Smith of Boosted Performance.
The ProCharged motor breathes freely thanks to a Borla 3.5-
inch ATAK stainless exhaust system. With a modest 9 psi of
compressed air, the package is good for 550 rwhp.
With so many impressive features underneath the Escalade,
Keena and Robbie opted for a far more minimalistic approach
to the body styling. The truck features all-OEM body panels
and bumpers. While the beautifully engineered body lines
remain intact, they are set off by wild styling. First is the purple
elephant in the room: a full wrap in satin Purple Black from
KPMF. The wrap extends around the factory bumpers and
door handles for a uniform appearance. It was installed by PG
NoLa in New Orleans. The ultimate styling feature, however,
makes its waves in just a few square inches. Both the front and
rear Cadillac emblems have been completely embellished in
color-matched Swarovski crystals by the Crystal Ninja. The
juxtaposition of over-the-top suspension, wheels, and tires
with the factory body styling is a complementary contrast. The
jewel-encrusted emblems are the perfect embodiments of the
truck’s style—loud and luxurious off-road attitude. Small but
subtle additions throughout the build help elevate its luxury
experience while Keena hauls the family around. The interior is
draped in extended Kona brown leather and features Cadillac’s
premium package, a touchscreen head unit, and Bose speakers
throughout. Mounted underneath the truck are HornBlasters
train horns, powered by a Viair compressor and FLO Airride
custom billet tank combo.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [30] MAY 17, 2018 -

Maleficent Intentions
Inside the Build
Year/Make/Model: ’16 Cadillac Escalade
Owner and City/State: Keena Bryant; Fort Smith, Arksanas
CHASSIS:
Front Suspension: Cognito Motorsports 10-inch IFS kit, FOA Coilovers
Rear Suspension: Stryker four-link, FOA coilovers, Viair compressors,
FLO Airride custom billet air tanks, Stryker center cradle
Brakes: R1 Concepts custom Big Brake Kit
ENGINE:
6.2L GM LS3 V-8, Procharger P1SC kit, K&N intake, Borla 3.5-inch ATAK
stainless exhaust, custom tune from Boosted Performance
BODY:
Full wrap in KPMY Satin Purple Black
Swarovski crystal–encrusted front and rear emblems, HornBlasters train
horns, All Out Industries LED rock lights
INTERIOR:
Kona Brown leather, factory premium package
Stereo: Bose system
WHEELS & TIRES:
Wheels: 24x14; American Force Grip SS6, V&V Concepts spike lugs
Tires: 375/40R24; Nitto Trail Grapplers
Special Thanks From Owner: A huge thanks to Josh White from
ADA Ofroad for building Keena the baddest lifted Escalade with a lot of
attention to detail. Big thanks to Kevin and crew at PG NoLa for doing such a
great job on the wrap. Kevin won Wrap King of the World the year prior.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [32] MAY 17, 2018 -

Maleicent Intentions
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [34] MAY 17, 2018 -

The finished Maleficent project checks all the SEMA boxes.
It stands out and stands tall in a crowd of customs. Thanks
to the careful engineering and meticulous craftsmanship of
Stryker and ADA, the truck drives like it rolled off the showroom
floor 10 inches taller than the rest of them. The flash of 24-inch
polished wheels and powdercoated undercarriage is tempered
with consistent styling and minimalistic body customizations.
The comfort of a factory interior remains in place and allows
this to be the ultimate family-friendly build. Keena and Robbie’s
unwavering commitment to the custom truck industry is
embodied by Maleficent. They continue to pour their passion
into every design and build, keeping customs fun and personal
without ever compromising quality.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [35] MAY 17, 2018 -

BUILT BY
BROT
Coming Together
for a Greater
Cause
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [36] MAY 17, 2018 -

HERSBY PHIL GORDON
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHIL GORDON
T
he value of friendship can be extremely beneficial to each of us. We utilize
friendships for many things, from liting us up when we’re down to inspiring
us to be better people. A friend did much more than that for Dennis Ricks of
Covington, Georgia. As a small child, Dennis grew up around vehicles. His
stepfather had a one-bay shop, and as early as seven years old Dennis was helping tape
up cars for paint. In middle school, he had to transfer schools, and that’s when life got a
little rough. Dennis became the victim of bullying and pranks throughout that year.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [37] MAY 17, 2018 -

Built By Brothers
He had one good friend,
though, and his friend’s older
brother had a lowered minitruck
with a wild paintjob in
which he let Dennis ride. “I
thought it was the coolest thing,”
Dennis tells Truckin. “It took my
mind of all the adversity I had
in school.” He began putting
together designs and ideas
for when he would be able to
get his own truck. Once he got
out of school, he was able to
purchase his irst truck from
his grandfather and begin to
get hands-on experience with
trucks.
Like most kids growing up,
Dennis lost focus of his goals
and started partying. “I was
going to clubs and drinking a
lot,” he says, “and before I knew
it, I was in a very bad place.” It
took an automobile accident
to wake him up and make
him realize where his life was
heading. He thought for a long
time how to refocus and get
back to a healthy place, and his
mind kept revisiting that minitruck
from middle school. It was
time for him to get sober and
start building a truck.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [38] MAY 17, 2018 -

Built By Brothers
Dennis was in the process of building a Chevy 1500, and his best
friend Robert had a ’00 Chevy Tahoe he was building. They both
decided to help each other during their builds. It was in early 2012 that
Dennis wanted to go to a truck show in North Carolina, but his truck
wasn’t going to make it. Robert told Dennis he could take his Tahoe to
the event. Before Dennis made it back home, he had fallen in love with
the Tahoe. It took quite some time to convince Robert to part with the
Tahoe, but Dennis eventually ended up taking possession. Dennis
showed it for a couple years, and in 2015 it was time for a rebuild.
Inside the Build
Year/Make/Model: ’00 Chevy Tahoe
Owner and City/State: Dennis Ricks; Covington, Georgia
Club Affiliation: Negative Camber
CHASSIS:
Front Suspension: Michigan Metal Works upper and lower arms,
notchless tie-rod kit, Slam RE7 bags, upgraded all crossmembers
Rear Suspension: Triangulated custom-built four-link, Slam RE7
bags over axle, C-notched and reinforced frame, Accuair E-Level
with touchpad, two 3-gallon stainless air tanks, engine-driven York
compressor, Viair 480 compressor for backup
Brakes: SSBC slotted disc brakes, four-piston front and two-piston
rear calipers
DRIVETRAIN:
Engine: 5.7L Vortec, Diablo programmer, Lunati cam, custom-built air intake
Transmission: 4L60 with B&M shift kit, B&M converter
Rearend: Chevy 12-bolt narrowed 9 inches
BODY/PAINT:
Stock loor body drop, shaved handles, antenna, billet grille inserts,
sport truck mirrors, suicide driver door, steel 2½-inch cowl hood from
Good Mark, one-off front bumper pulled and stretched by Robert
Robertson, factory clear glass, three-stage Nissan GTR blue by
AutoPaint Specialty Co in Athens, Georgia, via Lesonal AkzoNobel,
diamond clear headlights and marker lights, clear LED running lights,
Oracle LED headlights, 15-inch HiTech Lighting Co LED taillights
mounted in the rear C-pillar trim panel
INTERIOR:
Camel leather, custom-built door panels, custom trim panels, custombuilt
center console, two billet cupholders, billet window switches,
suede headliner, camel carpet, rear seat removed for audio, perforated
matching leather door panels done by Chris Rawlins of Exotic Auto
Trends in Savannah, Georgia, billet door handles from Clayton Machine
Works, Billet Specialties Chicayne steering wheel wrapped in leather
Stereo: Pioneer AVH-X2800BS, JL Audio three-way components,
three JL Audio W3V2 subwoofers, JL Audio 1000/1 and JL Audio 300/4
ampliiers built into rear seats, Stinger power and ground cables
WHEELS & TIRES:
Wheels: 22x9, 22x13; Donz DePaula
Tires: 265/30R22, 315/25R22; General
Special Thanks From Owner: My mom, who supported me from day
one; Robert Robertson, owner of Auto Extremes in Conyer, Georgia,
for teaching me so much; Brian Baty; Chris Rawlins; Auto Extremes
in Conyers Georgia; Robert; Shawn; Tommy; Bubba; Tyler; Kevin
(Chicken); Ryan; my brothers in Negative Camber—I honestly think
Tito would truly have been proud of this build.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [40] MAY 17, 2018 -

Built By Brothers
Dennis and Robert started with the suspension, adding a full
Accuair setup and rebuilding the entire rear suspension as well
as modifying all the crossmembers. Once the Chevy was ready
for bodywork, Tyler Hughey and Robert Robertson from Auto
Extremes in Conyers, Georgia, began with shaving and then added
a one-of front bumper that was pulled in and stretched. The Tahoe
was given a complete color change from green to Nissan GTR blue
to stand out even more. The next step was enlisting Dennis’ friend
Chris Rawlins from Savannah, Georgia, to handle the complete
interior change along with the custom stereo install.
Dennis works on heavy equipment at a cereal manufacturer
in Georgia, so he knows what it’s like to have teamwork and people
to depend on. Although the entire build time took almost two
years, Dennis knows it was because of all the help, support, and
motivation from his friends and family. It was his Negative Camber
brothers who constantly pushed him to build bigger and who, in
turn, rewarded Dennis with a full logo.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [42] MAY 17, 2018 -

- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [43] MAY 17, 2018 -

BY BRYAN FROSS
CES
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRYAN FROSS
SUCCESS
The 2018 Consumer Electronics Show
I
f you’re into car audio innovations or other new technology
announcements, then you know about the Consumer
Electronics Show. Each year in early January, CES is held
in Las Vegas, attracting manufacturers, buyers, media, and
even celebrities to check out all the new products. In a world where
the newest tech gadgets are always sought ater, mobile electronics
manufacturers erect huge displays to attract as much attention as
they can to their new oferings.
We stopped by the Kicker Audio booth, where a Chevrolet
Colorado was being used to demonstrate a GM performance
audio install. This Chevy also had a Napier truck tent in the bed
and a portable Bullfrog wireless speaker for those of you who like
camping or have to live in your truck when you spend too much
on parts. Kicker also has many other vehicle-speciic solutions
available for upgrading the tunes in your newer-model truck.
Across the aisle, JVC had a Ford Transit Connect laid out
and several displays showing off the company’s multimedia
products. Another SUV, this time a two-door Tahoe, had a
sizable crowd buzzing around it, including former NFL player
Terrell Owens, who took a few minutes to sit down inside and
listen to the PowerBass gear installed.
One product that generated a lot of buzz was the new Alpine
Halo 9, a 9-inch LCD head unit with a floating design—perfect
for consumers who do not have enough space for a double-DIN
in-dash and do not want to do a custom install.
As with years past, the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show included
many innovations in the tech industry, including all kinds of concept
vehicles, thought-provoking ideas, and plenty of new merchandise
that can be used inside or outside your vehicle. For more information
about the Consumer Electronics Show, make sure to visit ces.tech.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [44] MAY 17, 2018 -

- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [45] MAY 17, 2018 -

CES Success

- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [48] MAY 17, 2018 -
CES Success

DAD
WHEN LIFE HANDS YOU A CHILD, GET A BIGGER TRUCK
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [50] MAY 17, 2018 -

VAN
T
he
BY PHIL GORDON
PHOTOGRAPHY: PHIL GORDON
one event that changes every man’s direction in life is the birth of a child. Some refocus their dreams and passion, and
others simply work harder to provide a good life for their newborns. For Patrick Rapin of Saginaw, Michigan, the news
of his wife becoming pregnant set in motion a new chapter of his life and refocused his dreams. As a young boy, Patrick
remembers being fascinated with automobiles. “I would sit on my front porch and guess the year, make, and model of
every vehicle that drove by,” Patrick tells Truckin. “I didn’t realize how much that passion would ignite something even bigger in me.”
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [51] MAY 17, 2018 -

The very first custom truck show Patrick attended
was in Indianapolis. At 16, he and some friends piled into
a truck, booked a hotel, and made the drive. While at the
event, Patrick saw a GMC Envoy that stood out as being
the best vehicle at the show, and he bragged to all his
friends back home how cool it looked. During his high
school years, Patrick became interested in car and truck
stereo installation, and he loved it so much that he took an
electrical technician job at a local dealership through onthe-job
training. He purchased his first vehicle, a Chevy S-10,
and put his expertise to work in the stereo department.
After years of competing in stereo competitions, the
truck was involved in an accident, which forced Patrick to
go in a diferent direction. He purchased an import and once
again worked on making the stereo portion the hero of the
build. His love for trucks reemerged, and he eventually
replaced the import with another truck. After meeting his
wife, Liz, the two enjoyed the truck lifestyle together for the
next few years. Good news arrived when Liz found out they
were pregnant with their first child.
Patrick had only ever owned a single-cab truck or a twodoor
sports car, so it was time to change his direction. His
recollection of the best four-door vehicle he’d ever seen
was that GMC Envoy back in Indianapolis. Patrick was on a
mission to find the owner, even though it had been close to
10 years since he’d seen the truck, and he didn’t even know
if it was still in one piece. The power of social media worked
its magic, and he found the original owner, Matt Long, who
was eager to help. The unfortunate news for Patrick was
that Matt no longer owned it. In fact, it had changed owners
three times since Matt originally sold it. The good news
was, the current owner had the Envoy in Maryland and was
in contact with Matt.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [52] MAY 17, 2018 -

DAD VAN
The owner in Maryland actually had an advertisement locally to sell
the Envoy and when Patrick contacted him, he asked for much more
than the advertised price. As a good wheeler and dealer, Patrick showed
him the ad he found with a lower price and the owner agreed to part
ways for the listed amount. Patrick and his brother borrowed a trailer
and headed out on the 25-hour drive to pick up the Envoy. Once he
arrived back home, he contacted Matt and was able to get all the paint
codes, part names, and numbers for the SUV.
Patrick immediately went to work tearing out the suspension and
replacing it with new parts and making it more reliable and safe for a
new child. The biggest change was the exterior, as Patrick wanted to
give the Envoy a unique and personal touch. The paint was still in great
condition, but he enlisted a highly talented painter, Kevin Burdick at
Psycho Customs, to add a sentimental touch. For their honeymoon,
Patrick and Liz went to Belize and were amazed and overwhelmed by
the beauty of the Mayan ruins. Patrick took hundreds of pictures and
relayed them all to Kevin to add to the Envoy.
Inside the Build
Year/Make/Model: ’02 GMC Envoy
Owner and City/State: Patrick Rapin; Saginaw, Michigan
CHASSIS:
Front Suspension: Widened Art Morrison Mustang II IFS with Michigan
Metal Works lower arms, steering rack through the middle of the oil pan,
dual-port Slam Specialties XS-6, dual ½-inch lift valves, DJM shocks
Rear Suspension: Narrowed Thunderbird Super Coupe 8.8-inch rear
end, Slam Specialties single-port RE-7, single ½-inch lift, ½-inch dump with
mufflers, adjustable slowdowns at all four corners, custom-mounted AVS
7 switchbox, fully adjustable tubular upper and lowers from Kustomwerks
and modified by Michigan Metal Works, Doetsch rear shocks, suspension
powdercoated by Psycho Customs, narrowed CV shafts
DRIVETRAIN:
Engine: 4.2L inline-six, custom cold-air intake with K&N filter, all wiring
relocated, custom exhaust, custom air-conditioning lines, billet radiator
overflow catch can, Spal electric fan—all done by Matt, Eric, and Derrick
at Kustomwerks
BODY/PAINT:
Shaved handles, gas door, rear liftgate, and roof rack; PPG Corona Gold
metallic pearl; Matrix Systems airbrush in Mayan ruin theme by Psycho
Customs and Kevin Burdick; stock floor body drop; rear door modified latches
and strikers; ’09 Envoy Denali front bumper cover; billet grille; full HID lighting;
tinted taillights smoothed clear and bufed; one-of airbrushed headlights by
Kevin Burdick; Plain an Simple Oracle Concept strip lighting and blinkers
INTERIOR:
Katzkin leather seats, panels, and door inserts; painted interior pieces;
fiberglass’d air gauges; cupholders shaved for switches; rear seats narrowed
from 60/40 to 40/40 to accommodate rear wheel tubs; rear seatbelts
removed—all done by Matt, Eric, and Derrick at Kustomwerks
Stereo: Pioneer AVIC-F900BT, Memphis Audio components, four 10-inch
Memphis Audio M-Class subwoofers, Memphis Belle 16-MC1300D and
Memphis M-Class 16 MC3004 amplifiers, Optima RedTop battery custom
mounted in bumper, Kinetik KHC2400 battery under rear seats done by Matt,
Eric, and Derrick at Kustomwerks
WHEELS & TIRES:
Wheels: 20x8.5, 22x10.5 Hot Rods by Boyd Shadow
Tires: 255/35R20 & 285/30R22; Continental Extreme Contact
Special Thanks: My wife, Liz, and son, Tyler—without them, none of this
would have ever happened. Matt Long, Eric Arrington, and Derrick Bawcum
for building a legit truck years ago back at the old Kustomwerks. And thanks
to Jared Wilson and the whole crew at Psycho Customs, Airbrush artist Kevin
Burdick of Scraps Designs, Nick Mclanahan at US Speedo, Robert Davis at
Plain an Simple, Taylor Jardas at MMW, Steve Brondstetter at Altimate, Jake
Clark, Andrew Rapin, Andy Jestis, and anyone else who has ever come over
to drink beer while I was wrenchin’ under the truck.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [54] MAY 17, 2018 -

DAD VAN
The interior and lighting system exhibited signs of wear and tear,
so Patrick updated the cabin and made it fit his style a little more with
custom front and rear lights and a complete overhaul of the inside.
Patrick went back to his roots and added a ground-shattering stereo
system. The GMC had a set of Boyd Coddington wheels, but they had
been painted black to hide the pitting throughout the long years of
driving. They were taken of and media blasted while Jared at Psycho
Customs hand-brushed the faces to achieve the grain look and then
powdercoated the rest of the wheels black.
Patrick lives just a couple of hours from the border of Canada, and
throughout the years he has built a great reputation with the truck
community there. “I probably make the trip into the Great White North
once a month,” Patrick adds. “I make it a family trip with Liz and my new
son Tyler in the SUV.” At the time of this article, news was that Liz and
Patrick were expecting their second child, Maddox. The way things are
going, Patrick’s next “Dad Van” might need to be a bus.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [56] MAY 17, 2018 -

- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [58] MAY 17, 2018 -

BY PHIL GORDON
PHOTOG RAPHY: PHIL GORDON
T
he Ford Bronco was iconized in the widely broadcasted
car chase of O.J. Simpson but was first produced in 1966
as an MPV (multipurpose vehicle) and predated the term
SUV. In 1986, Tony Luther’s mom, Michele, purchased a
brand-new Ford Bronco as the family’s daily vehicle. The Ford was
used for anything and everything, from family vacations to school
travel. It was even used to bring home Tony’s brothers from the
hospital after birth. And Tony learned to drive for the first time in
the Bronco! When he turned 16, the Ford Bronco was given to him
as his first vehicle.
After Tony drove the Ford for a couple of years in its stock state,
Michele surprised him with a new paintjob. “It wasn’t a full custom
paintjob,” Tony tells Truckin, “but it was special nonetheless.”
The motor on the Bronco was starting to deteriorate, leaking oil
and wearing out, so with the help of a close friend, Tony rebuilt
the engine. The next step was adding a lift kit for those rough
Pennsylvania roads. The Ford was used for everyday life until 2006
when Tony wanted to head in a new direction.
After starting his own lawn care and landscaping business, Tony
decided to update his classic Ford. “Although I never really had a
AN EL
direction or purpose for the truck,” Tony adds, “it was a huge part
of my life, going to prom, graduation, and even taking my now-wife
CAMINO/BRONCO on our first date.” The Bronco was in need of restoration, and Tony
knew he wasn’t going to get rid of it, so he did the next best thing.
After getting married and having his first child, Tony contacted RPM
HYBRID
Hot Rods about the build.
EL BRONCERO
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [59] MAY 17, 2018 -

EL BRONCERO
The build stalled with RPM, so Tony took the Ford
back home and got discouraged. Tony became frustrated
because of all the money he’d already spent that hadn’t
matched the progress. RPM’s lead fabricators, John Ortiz
and Josh Hart, reached out and contacted Tony and told
him they opened a new shop and would be honored
to continue the build. They immediately got down to
business doing all the bodywork and suspension work.
The Bronco was brought to Volker’s Auto Body to
rough-in all the bodywork, door gaps, and final primer.
The next stop was Smith’s Custom Interior, where the
entire cabin was upholstered and upgraded. “I wanted
to retain the stock appearance as much as possible, but
it was a challenge. The rear seats had to be shortened
because of the rear tubs, and the interior had to be done
in weatherproof material because the Ford had no roof.”
Motorcycle seat covering was used and marine-grade
carpet was added in case Tony was caught in the rain. The
YellowTop battery was added sideways and underneath
the Ford to keep the engine compartment clean.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [60] MAY 17, 2018 -

NINA'S
1978 Ford F-150 4X4
DIY isn’t an option.
It’s a GIVEN.
Nina didn’t just buy her truck, she rebuilt it. And her skinned knuckles
prove her DNA is literally all over it. We get it. In fact, we pretty
much exist for gals like her. So, when you need the next part, just reach
out to us. We’ll get you the right part, at the right price, right now.
Read Nina’s story and share your own at LMCTruckLife.com
Chevy/GMC 1947-13 | Ford 1948-15 | Dodge 1972-15 | LMCTruck.com | 800.562.8782

EL BRONCERO
The Bronco was brought back to Volker’s for paintwork, and
Thad Cunningham came in to custom paint all the Ford Bronco
emblems. Josh Hart added the final touch to the truck by finding
and installing a factory cassette player with JL Audio components
hidden under the dash. The Bronco is just as old as Tony, they
were both born in 1985, and he appreciates the era so much that
he wanted to bring the now-classic Bronco back to life. Although
Tony isn’t mechanically inclined, every last detail and addition was
designed for his family’s enjoyment.
Tony wishes to thank his mother, Michele Luther, for the surprise
paintjob as well as for being the best mother. He also wishes to thank
his wife and best friend, Doreen, for her support and encouragement
as well as their two children, Brianna and Damian, who enjoy riding
in the Bronco to Ritchey’s Ice Cream on those warm summer nights.
A special thanks to Josh Hart, Joe, Al, and Neil for always having a
great time and killer rides in El Broncero.
Inside the Build
Year/Make/Model: ’85 Ford Bronco
Owner and City/State: Tony Luther; Duncansville, Pennsylvania
Club Affiliation: Severed Ties petitioner
CHASSIS:
Front Suspension: RideTech shockwaves, Fatman Fabrications Mustang II
front clip, Slam Specialties SS-6 bags
Rear Suspension: Slam Specialties SS-6 bags, four-link, Accuair E-Level with
touchpad, done by Josh Hart of Hart Fab in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania
DRIVETRAIN:
Engine: 351 Windsor Comp Cam Xtreme energy cam/kit, Edelbrock air gap
intake, Edelbrock 600-cfm carburetor, March Performance serpentine kit,
Hooker headers, exhaust hand-built by Josh Hart, painted valve covers by
Thad Cunningham in Duncansville, Pennsylvania
Transmission: Factory C4, four-wheel-drive transfer case removed, twowheel-drive
tail piece added, transmission built by Automatic Transmission
Specialists in Altoona, Pennsylvania
Rearend: Ford 9-inch rear narrowed 5 inches by March Chassis in Bedford,
Pennsylvania
BODY/PAINT:
Narrowed and tucked front bumper; shaved front marker lights, door locks,
drip rails, and wiper cowl; tailgate and bumper shaved and molded into one
piece; front and rear wheel tubs and radiator support covers done by Josh
Hart; PPG Enviro basecoat; Blue Jeans Metallic paint; bodywork and paint done
by Jef Volker of Volker’s Auto Body in Youngwood, Pennsylvania; Bronco and
Ford emblems painted by Thad Cunningham of Icon Sign Company
INTERIOR:
Original bench seat, original rear bench cut 5.5 inches to fit between rear
tubs, vinyl is Allante by Mellohide and suede inserts is charcoal micro suede,
suede inserts to match all done by Kevin Smith of Smith Custom Interior in
Martinsburg, Pennsylvania
Stereo: JL Audio MRT-RX Bluetooth hidden under dash, factory cassette
installed in dash, JL Audio HX280/4 amplifier, JL Audio C5-650x 6.5-inch
components
WHEELS & TIRES:
Wheels: 22x9; black and chrome Coys
Tires: 265/30R22, 285/35R22; Yokohama Parada
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [62] MAY 17, 2018 -

BE ROGUE.
BE BOLD.
BE PROUD.
BODY
MAX ALTITUDE LIFT KIT
NDX GRILLE WITH
SHOW SERIES BLADE
RX-7 STEP BARS
RX-1 EXHAUST TIP
SOLE
ROLLINGBIGPOWER.COM
1-877-519-9090

BY JEREMY COOK AND STEVE BROWN
PHOTOGRAPHY: JEREMY COOK
1.
1. Alpine’s resident tech
expert Phil Bowen got
right to work assessing
the damage caused by
thieves when they stole
the first Alpine system
out of our Ford F-150.
Thieves suck!
Theft Recovery
Alpine
Electronics’
New Halo9
Updates
the Truckin
F-150
2. The Alpine iLX-F309
Halo9 unit boasts a full
9-inch touchscreen
display, which can be
moved up/down, in/
out, and even tilted to
accommodate diferent
dashboard styles.
Source:
ALPINE ELECTRONICS USA
310.326.8000
alpine-usa.com
S
ome of you may remember a few months ago when we wrote in our editorial about how our
flagship Truckin vehicle, the ’13 Ford F-150, was broken into and the Alpine was stolen. Well,
part of it anyway, rendering it useless to the thieves but just as expensive for us. The door
and handle were repaired at LGE-CTS, but we still had the head unit to contend with.
Luckily for us, Alpine is in the process of releasing one of the most innovative head units in recent
memory—one that just about stole the show at CES recently, the Halo9. The Halo9 features a single-
DIN chassis with an adjustable, floating, 9-inch screen and all the bells and whistles, including Apple
CarPlay. There are two reasons why the Halo9 will soon be a game changer. The first is because the
price is considerably lower than any of the 9-inch head units previously on the market. The second
is that since you’re dealing with a standard,
2.
single-DIN chassis, all it takes is a standard
installation kit, making the Halo9 feel at
home in just about any truck made in the last
half-century!
Since all the cables and wiring for the
components, subs, and amps were still intact,
the process was as simple as installing the
kit and wiring up the new plug for the Halo9.
We also installed the new 900-watt Alpine
X-A90V 5-Channel X-Series digital amplifier,
which provided an additional 75 watts to
each 10-inch subwoofer, giving us a little
more bump to go with our new Halo. Follow
along as we knock the truck out in about half
a day and check out the Alpine website to
see what you can do in your truck’s cab.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [64] MAY 17, 2018 -

3. 4.
3. From the side, the Alpine Halo9’s
universal design can be seen. A
single-DIN–style chassis ensures
the unit can be installed in anything
with a single- or double-DIN radio
opening. For example, just about
every truck on the road!
4. Connections for multiple media
sources can be seen on the rear,
along with a cooling fan to ensure
reliable operation in even the
tightest dash spaces.
5.
5. Alpine’s X-A90V 5-Channel
X-Series digital amplifier provides
900 watts of clean, continuous
power for the whole system, while
keeping the chassis size small for
easy installation.
“I caught him in
my car trying to
steal my Alpine.”–
Eazy-E

Theft Recovery
6. 7.
6. The iDatalink Maestro K150 dash kit
for the ’13-to-’14 Ford F-150 seamlessly
integrates an aftermarket radio like the
Alpine Halo9, and the OEM features are
retained by the kit when installed with
the Maestro RR interface module (sold
separately).
8. 9.
7. The original Alpine digital amp
was able to easily fit under the rear
passenger seat in the truck, with plenty
of room for ventilation. The updated
version has another 150 watts of power
and will fit in the same location.
8. All wires were run under the carpet
to the amplifier location under the rear
seat. Note the heavy 4-gauge power
and ground wires that are critical when
installing a powerful amp like this.
9. Phil tied the speaker leads to the
proprietary plugs Alpine uses to
connect the speakers to the amp.
10. 11. 12.
10. All the wiring was terminated with the
plugs Alpine supplied with the amp and
snapped into place.
11. When completed, the wiring looked neat
and clean like this. A hole to route the wiring
was cut under the amp so it can’t be seen.
13. 14.
13. Phil spliced
the Alpine power
harness to the
universal harness
included in the
K150 dash kit
using crimp
connectors.
12. The two Alpine Type S 10-inch subwoofers
and the custom-sealed enclosure provide the
low frequencies and were carried over from
the last install. This box was desi gned by
Alpine’s own Steve Brown to down-fire under
the rear seat for max output.
14. With the
wiring complete,
Phil plugged
everything
in to test the
system before
reassembling the
vehicle. This is an
important step
and potentially a
huge time-saver.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [66] MAY 17, 2018 -

15.
16. Phil plugged in the appropriate
connections, including this plug that matches
the F-150’s OEM radio harness. If the truck
ever needed to go back to stock, it would be
no problem.
16.
17.
15. The Alpine Halo9 chassis was mounted
into the vehicle first, and the screen was
bolted on the front of the faceplate. Note the
thick steel used for this connector to ensure
long-term rattle-free operation.
18.
19. The K150 kit incorporates some innovative
features, like this pocket with USB, HDMI, and
3.5mm inputs for easy media connection to
that huge 9-inch screen.
19.
17. Then Phil installed the dash kit trim bezel
around the chassis of the Alpine unit. Note
that while it appears stock, the heater and
A/C control unit is actually part of the kit. It
is necessary to replace it when replacing the
radio in certain F-150 models (like this one).
20.
18. With the truck buttoned up, Phil
checked the functionality of the new
Alpine Halo9 system.
20. CarPlay and Android Auto are both
standard on the Alpine Halo9, allowing mostused
functions like navigation, phone, music,
and messages to be driven by the smartphone
and controlled by the Alpine unit.
Snugtop has long
been recognized as
an industry-leading
innovator. The GB
Sport cap adds
to that legacy.
Designed to compliment
the styling of this newest
generation of pickups, the
GB Sport’s scalloped side
window (with pop-outs)
and subtle rear spoiler
with an integral LED
brake light set Snugtop’s
latest creation apart
from the crowd. Superior
construction —along
with a Lifetime Warranty
on structure and finish—
ensure it’ll be timeless.
562-432-5454 www.snugtop.com

21.
Theft Recovery
22. Multiple audio sources like Bluetooth,
HDMI, and CarPlay allow connectivity across
a wide range of devices.
22.
23.
21. With an iPhone connected, functions like
navigation become instantly available and
controllable via touch or voice.
24.
25. Alpine’s Steve Brown dials in the amp
gains and crossover points to get the most
out of the system. Tuning is an often-missed
step that can really maximize the sound and
output of a quality setup like this.
25.
23. Phil spent some time tuning the
system using Alpine’s built-in soundprocessing
functions, and the result was
a system that rocks!
26.
24. The voice button allows hands-free
control of the system, which is important in
places like California, which have steep fines
for in-car cell phone use.
27.
26. Now that the sound is right, Phil
installs the beauty covers to finish the
amplifier install.
27. The installation is complete, so Phil wastes no time testing it with a rap classic! The Alpine Halo9 display not only upgrades the look of the
F-150’s dash but vastly improves the connectivity as well. If you have an older vehicle you plan on keeping, maybe it’s time to upgrade the
dashboard to 2018 status! All that was left to do now was hit the road while bumpin’ “Boyz in the Hood!”
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [68] MAY 17, 2018 -

BEST BRANDS.
LOWEST PRICES.
BFGoodrich
T/A-A/T KO2
Cooper
Discoverer AT3
Falken
Wild Peak A/T3W
Falken
Ziex STZ 05
Nitto
Ridge Grappler
Yokohama
Geolander M/T G003
Method
MR605
Black Rhino
Kunene
Black Rhino
Timbavati
Fuel
Avenger D606
v o g u e t y r e
WHEELS
Visit DISCOUNTTIREDIRECT.COM to view our huge selection and low prices!
FREE SAME-DAY SHIPPING Some restrictions apply
888.588.3544 M–F: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. EST, Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. EST

BY JEREMY COOK
PHOTOGRAPHY: JEREMY COOK
Project Over-Under: Part One
BEFORE
Audiotistics Brings
Technology and Bass
to Our Standard Cab
Silverado
I
n the editorial the last couple of months, we introduced our latest “beat to neat”
Project Over-Under. It’s always a tough decision when it comes to what to start
with when you begin a build, but since we are in the midst of our annual 12-volt
issue, we decided we would work on this truck from the inside out, beginning
with the security and audio. The idea of adding an alarm was to simply add door lock
solenoids so the truck would have keyless entry, but we went with a Viper setup that
offered a whole lot more than that.
On the audio side, we really just wanted to update the truck—and maybe get a little
bass behind the seat. After all, this was intended to be the “basic” build for this issue.
But, as usual, things snowballed a bit, and we ended up with a pretty nice system.
Credit goes to Tim Wepprecht and his crew at Audiotistics in Victorville, California.
Not only did they knock out the install in just a day, but they took our simple, behindthe-seat
sub box idea and transformed it into a fully upholstered sub enclosure and
amp rack. Audiotistics is also a top builder and installer of all things audio and an
authorized dealer for all of the manufacturers we used in the build, including JL
Audio for our amp, subwoofer, and component speakers, as well as the JVC Digital
Media Receiver and the Viper Remote Entry and Security system. Check out all the
manufacturers’ websites to see what you can do for your truck’s audio as well as the
Audiotistics website to see all of its custom builds. Finally, check back here at Truckin
to see how Project Over-Under evolves.
Sources:
2.
AFTER
1.
1. Our ’03 Chevy Silverado, dubbed Project
Over-Under, is the subject of this audio and
alarm install as part of our annual 12-volt issue.
It’s also the first installment of many for the
truck itself. Since we were stripping most of
the interior for the audio and alarm, we took
the opportunity to give the interior parts a
deep cleaning, and there will be several more
interior upgrades in the months to come.
AUDIOTISTICS
760.843.1000
audiotistics.com
JL AUDIO
954.443.1100
jlaudio.com
JVC
800.252.5722
us.jvc.com
VIPER
800.274.0200
viper.com
2. The heart of the
install is this JVC
double-DIN AV KW-
M740BT multimedia
receiver. It features
a 6.8-inch Clear
Resistive Touch
Monitor, Apple
CarPlay, Android Auto,
Waze, WebLink, High-
Resolution Audio,
iDataLink Maestro
Ready, Bluetooth,
13-Band EQ, and even
an app to run the
whole thing from your
smartphone.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [70] MAY 17, 2018 -

2.
3. Audiotistics in Victorville, California, is a huge dealer for Viper, whose line of security and remotestart
items lets you build out your system with the features you want. We went with the Smart Start
app and two-way LCD remote and added door locks for our stripped-down model doors. JL Audio
C1-525 and C1-650 separates will fill the four stock locations in the standard cab truck.
3.
3. One JL Audio RD900/5 Class D amplifier will take care of the power. It will provide 70
watts to each separate and 500 watts to the sub. We matched it up with a top-quality JL
Audio installation kit and a trio of connector cables.
4.
4. Last but certainly not least
is the JL Audio 13TW5v2
13-inch shallow-mount
subwoofer. The unique
chassis allows it to only need
2.6 inches, and the ideal
volume for a sealed Box is .80
cubic feet, so that is what the
crew at Audiotistics built.
5. The Audiotistics master
installers, consisting of Wes
Evans, Andy Cardenas, and
Andrew Schnelle, wasted no
time stripping the interior and
removing the old components.
In this shot, the dash bezel was
popped of and the old single-
DIN head unit was removed.
5.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [71] MAY 17, 2018 -

Project Over-Under: Part One
6.
7.
6. The door panels were pulled, as were the lower dash panel and
side caps, doorsills, and kick panels. There will soon be a lot of work
happening here to connect the state-of-the-art Viper security system.
8.
7. Elsewhere in the cab, the seats were removed, as was the back
panel, and the side panels were next.
9.
8. With the factory rear speakers removed and tossed, we were ready
to begin running wire for the new system.
10. 11.
9. We started under the hood by running the fused power wire to the
battery, as well as a constant power and ground for the alarm.
10. While we were under the hood, the siren was mounted up under
the fender support and all of our wires were fed through the firewall.
11. Back in the cab, the crew was making quick work of running all the
wiring. The connector cables run from the head unit through the dash
and kick panel back to the amp. The speaker wires follow suit.
12. 13.
12. The main module of
the Viper system will be
located under the dash
and has several wires that
need to be sorted and
connected.
13. We can’t even begin
to follow the complete
wiring up of the Viper
system, but it involves
tapping into several wires
under the column (as
seen here) and is best left
to the professionals. The
Audiotistics guys knocked
it out in about an hour.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [72] MAY 17, 2018 -

14.
THE ONLY BRAKES
MADE THIS WAY
Kevlar ® based low abrasion, low dust,
high performance compound in a choice
of different blends for every driving style
and vehicle
Edge chamfers for reduced chatter
and improved pad
contact
14. The doors were wired up for
the door lock solenoids and JL 6.5
components. Every connection was
soldered instead of using connectors,
ensuring a top-quality install.
15. Since 5.25-inch speakers would
be replacing the factory 4x6s many
companies have stopped producing,
we fabbed up a set of “adapters” using
two layers of ¼-inch MDF cut out on the
table router.
15.
Unique "Brake-In"
coating conditions
rotors fast at pad
install and seats new
pads quicker
Noise shims on piston
side of pad for totally
silent braking
NUCAP ® NRS ® hook
finished backing plates
for superb bond
strength and zero
chance of pad de-bond
GD
BSD
16. The new piece was painted and
installed, and the JL Audio speakers
were screwed into place.
USR
RK
16.
Combine your choice of these quality UK made EBC pads with our
sport rotors which arrive with “thermic black” corrosion resistant
coated finish for great looking brakes that COST less and STOP faster.
Buy ONLINE or from your favorite
performance store or order at Autozone.
www.ebcbrakes.com

Project Over-Under: Part One
17.
18. The tweeters were cut and set into the
A-pillar plastics. It’s a great way to get the
highs up where you can hear them.
18.
19.
17. Then the front doors were built out with
the new 6.5-inch speakers and the door lock
solenoids.
20.
21. Soon, we slid the JVC unit into place and
powered it up. But we still have a long way to
go before we get to the tuning.
21.
19. Finally, the crossovers were located behind
the side panels on the ends of the dash.
22.
20. Then we began the final connection of the
JVC head unit. With the installation kit, this part
of our install was as plug and play as it gets.
23.
24.
22. While we were wrapping up the rest of
the truck, the Audiotistics crew was already
busting out the custom box. We told owner Tim
Wepprecht that a pre-fab box would be fine,
but, as you’ll see, he had other ideas for our
Silverado project.
25. 26. 27.
23. We checked the fitment of the box itself before
moving on to the amp rack.
24. The amp and amp rack will take up the remainder
of the cab wall and will sit flush with the sub box once
complete.
25. After a few minutes of computer design, Tim
used the laser cutter to make up the front panel.
What you see here is actually the main panel
and the insert panels being cut at the same time
with a ¼-inch gap in between for upholstery.
26. With the amp rack completed and the
front of the box painted up, a couple of small
brackets will hold the box in place.
27. The covers were set in place for final
fitment before they were upholstered.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [74] MAY 17, 2018 -

28. 29.
28. We also wired up the amp at this time and mounted it for the
last time.
30. 31.
29. Here’s the final cover just prior to upholstery. As you can see, the
Audiotistics crew even added an angled top section.
30. We chose some simple black carpet to wrap up our outer piece.
32. 33.
31. We wrapped the inserts in black vinyl and gave them one last test
fit before installing them in the truck.
32. Here’s the final product all buttoned up. The Audiotistics crew
really went above and beyond to deliver a killer product.
33. All that was left to do now was tune the amp and the head unit
and add both the Viper and JVC apps to our smartphone. The
overall sound and bass we got out of this setup is pretty incredible.
And this is just the beginning for Project Over-Under, so stay tuned!
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [75] MAY 17, 2018 -

BY JEREMY COOK & TIM WEPPRECHT
PHOTOGRAPHY: JEREMY COOK
Next-Level Audio
Installation
Building an Amp Rack for Show Points and Big Bass
T
here was a time when building out your truck’s
audio system meant adding some quality audio
components and calling it a day. But now that’s just
the tip of the iceberg for show trucks—and lots of
daily drivers. Many truck owners and builders are taking several
extra steps to ensure their truck stands out in a crowd, not only
with big bass, but with the presentation as well.
Recently, we were out at Audiotistics in Victorville, California,
and were intrigued by all the high-caliber builds happening. One
such vehicle was a Ram that already had some 12-volt upgrades
completed by the shop but was back for a full audio rebuild.
The head unit was pretty easy; Tim Wepprecht and the crew
1.
updated the double-DIN hole with a new Kenwood eXcelon
unit. The component speakers (mids and highs) were already
replaced in the last go-round. The big change taking place when
we discovered the truck was the finishing stages of a giant “blowthrough”
box that was pretty much bulletproof even before the
spray-on bedliner treatment and which took up about half the
bed. Housed in the behemoth box are four 12-inch subwoofers
from Shok Industries.
The last aspect of the build—and the one we were interested in
following—was the amp rack, which would be located under the
rear seat. As is the case with many crew cab trucks, the seatbacks
are mounted directly to the cab wall, while the seat bottoms flip
right up. So while the sub box opening would be hidden, the area
where the amps would be mounted is easily accessible. This is the
area Audiotistics would take to the next level.
Amp racks take on many shapes and sizes, depending on
where they are mounted. While this one would be pretty flat and
straightforward, that didn’t stop Tim and the crew from adding
all kinds of tricks and details. Follow along to see what it takes
and let them know if you’re looking for something similar in
your truck.
2.
Source:
AUDIOTISTICS
760.843.1000
audiotistics.com
1. Audiotistics is located in Victorville,
California, just a hop, skip, and two jumps
from Truckin headquarters. We arrived at
one of the nicest showrooms we’ve seen
and knocked out the install and amp rack
build in a couple of days.
2. Some of the high-end components we’re using include the
Kenwood DDX 6903S with Apple CarPlay in-dash touchscreen
along with four 12-inch Shok Industries subwoofers and a Full
Throttle FT-1100 battery.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [76] MAY 17, 2018 -

3. 4.
3. SounDigital
provided the amps in
the form of a 1200.4
1,200-watt fourchannel
amplifier
and a 5000.1 5,000-
watt one-channel
amplifier.
5.
4. The Ram we were
working with already
had a previous interior
build, including the
smoothed and painted
bezel that made the
Kenwood head unit a
plug and play afair.
5. The Full Throttle FT-1100 battery
was installed in the stock location. The
crew also fabbed up the huge power
and ground wires and ran them to their
destinations.
6.
6. The blow-through subwoofer
enclosure was built specifically for the
bed of the Ram. This thing was built
mega-strong and coated with bedliner
material for durability.
7.
7. From inside the cab, you can see the
four 12-inch Shok Industries subwoofers
ready for action, as well as the section
that seals the cab to the bed and box.
With this era Ram, the rear seatback is
mounted permanently to the cab wall,
concealing the subs.

8.
Next-Level Audio Installation
8. But the seat bottom flips up easily, revealing the
Audiotistics custom amp rack, the focus for this
story. The first step involved using 1-inch-wide MDF
strips to get the outside shape of the amp rack. The
strips are glued together to hold the shape.
9. Now, the template is firmly attached to ¼-inch MDF
with double-stick tape.
9.
10.
11. Next, the amp rack windows and window
insert rings are designed on the program for
the CNC router.
11.
12.
10. Then the outside of the ¼-inch MDF is
trimmed of with a ¼-inch flush trim spiral bit
from Mobile Solutions.
13.
14. Then they continue the process by adding
a 45-degree bevel on the inside of the amp
rack ring to add detail and depth.
14.
12. Then we sit and watch as the CNC
router cuts out the ½-inch MDF amp
windows and rings.
15.
13.Before moving on, the Audiotistics crew
test-fits the amp rack trim rings on the MDF
cutout.
16. 17.
15. Here is a close-up of the bevel. It’s details
like these that add up to a show-quality
installation.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [78] MAY 17, 2018 -
16. After the amp window frame is attached
to the amp rack, a ¼-inch flush trim spiral bit
is used to cut out the inside of the amp rack
window.
17. The window insert is test-fit, making sure
the gaps are good for two layers of vinyl to
pass through.

18.
19. The logo insert is test-fit into its frame.
Then the fun stuf begins.
19.
20.
18. Once again, the spiral bit is used on the
table router to cut out the center of the logo
insert.
21. 22.
20. The crew begins molding the amp rack
to the outside of the window frame with 3M
Marglass fiberglass strand body filler.
21. Then the fiberglass filler is sanded using
36-grit paper until the contour is even across
each section. This can be a long and tedious
process, but Tim and the crew have it down to
a science.
23.
24. Some sections are wrapped with red to
match the Ram’s body color.
24.
22. Once the sanding is complete, each
section of the amp rack is wrapped with black
vinyl. A glue pot is used on both surfaces
before the vinyl is stretched and formed
around all the contours.
25.
23. On the backside, the excess vinyl is
trimmed of and glued flat.
26.
27. Next, the crew test-fit the amps on the
mirrored acrylic, making sure the wire relief
notches lined up with the amp.
27.
25. The boys started getting fancy by cutting
sections of mirrored acrylic out on the CNC
router.
28.
26. With the mirrored acrylic cut, they were
ready to peel of the protective plastic layer.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [79] MAY 17, 2018 -
28. The mirror wasn’t enough, so Tim is
seen here adding SMD LED strip lighting
to the amp rack.

29.
Next-Level Audio Installation
30. Finally, the last insert panel was
upholstered and ready to pop into place.
30.
31.
29. With the SMD LEDs all wired up, we were
ready for final assembly of the amp rack.
32. The acrylic,
32. 33.
complete
with LEDs and
etched logos,
was installed in
the amp rack,
followed by
the mirrored
sections.
31. The Audiotistics logo was reverse-etched
onto the acrylic and mirrored acrylic, which
will reveal a pretty cool efect once installed.
33. The amps
were once again
double-checked
before the rack
was mounted in
the vehicle.
34. 35.
34. With the amps mounted in place on their
mirrored platforms, Tim began mounting the
amp rack under the rear seat.
36.
35. After the amps are fully tuned with an
SMD DD-1 distortion detector, the red window
inserts are slid into the amp rack.
36. The multicolor Audiotistics and
SounDigital logos are lit up and ready to shine.
37. Our installation is complete, and our amp
rack is seriously looking good. That was a lot of
ground to cover, but now you have a glimpse
of what it takes for audio build-outs at this
level. If you’re looking to go above and beyond
with your audio install, give Audiotistics a call.
37.
- VOLUME 44, NO. 07, [80] MAY 17, 2018 -

Looking for a personalized
gift for almost any
occasion?
My Own Cover magazine
covers are perfect for birthday
gifts, holiday gifts, corporate
recognitions, or celebrating
a milestone.
Each magazine cover is as
unique as the person on
the cover.
JeadVYndjgdlce]didh
9Zh^\c\gZVieZghdcVa^oZYXdkZgh
DgYZgeg^cihidh]VgZdg\^kZ
as gifts
Create your own magazine
cover and be a star.
www.myowncover.com
HUNDREDS OF
VEHICLES
ONE LOCATION
MORE SHOW DETAILS AT

Parting Shot
EDITOR: JEREMY COOK
Truckin magazine, continuing to be the world’s best.
2018 SHOW CALENDAR
Do you promote a show or run that draws 150 trucks or more? Send
the above information to editorsinbox@truckin.com for review!
Apr. 27-29, Southeast MiniTruckin Nationals, Valley, NC,
minitruckinnats.com
May 4, Edelbrock Car Show, Torrance, CA,
edelbrockcarshow.com
May 4-5, LMC Truck C10 Nationals, Fort Worth, TX,
c10nationals.com
May 4-6, Holley LS Fest West, Las Vagas, NV,
lsfest.com
May 4-6, Battle in Bama, Mobile, AL,
battleinbama.net
May 17-19, F-100 Ford Reunion, Pigeon Forge, TN,
gnf100fordreunion.com
May 19, Cruise to the Pines, Prescott, AZ,
facebook.com/events/1994863710799247
June 2-3, Midwest Dragfest, Sedalia, MO,
Midwest-dragfest.com
June 2-3, Friends in Low Places, Mount Airy, NC,
facebook.com/events/184991808743285
June 8-10, Outbreak, Lufkin, TX,
outbreaktx.com
June 9-10, Slamology, Indianapolis, IN,
slamology.com
June 22-24, Scrapin’ the Coast, Biloxi, MS,
scrapinthecoast.com
Coming
Next
Month
Issue #8,
on sale May
18th
We’ve got some
pretty unique
rides coming
your way next
month. In fact,
we’re pretty
sure each
of our cover
trucks features
something
about its bed
that we’ve never
featured before.
How is that even
possible, you
ask? Pick up the
next issue and
find out! Issue #8
goes on sale May
18, 2018.
TRUCKIN (ISSN 0277-5743), Volume 44, Number 7, is published every four weeks by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC, 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 18th Floor, New
York NY 10036. Copyright © 2018 by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC . All Rights Reserved. Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY and additional mailing oices.
SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S. AND U.S. possessions $36.00 for one year (13 issues). Canadian $49.00 and all other countries $62.00 (including surface mail postage). Payment
in advance, U.S. funds only. Single copy price is $5.99. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send
address corrections to: TRUCKIN, P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235.

for your RV
geico.com 800-442-9253 V>"vwVi
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076;
a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO