Timeline
“She always wanted an old truck”
Story by John Aschenberg
& Linda Kitchens
Photos by – Julia Aschenberg & Owner
The Kitchens used the stock frame for the foundation, however updating all the suspension with goodies from the likes of Chassis Engineering, RB’s Obsolete Automotive, and Ididit just to name a few. The front suspension consist of a bolt in Mustang II cross member and steering box from RB’s Obsolete, while out back you’ll find a Ford 9” nestled in place with the help of Chassis Engineering leaf springs, antiroll bar and shocks. An Ididit steering column was installed for better maneuverability and handling while being topped off with a Billet Specialties steering wheel. Vintique wheels were chosen to rest in all four corners painted in an orange sherbet color, with 15” x 7” in front and 15” x 8” in the rear all wrapped in B.F. Goodrich Radial TA’s.
For motivation a low mileage 350 c.i. Chevy small block was pulled from an ’86 Suburban, then cleaned up and all dressed out with an Edelbrock intake manifold and carburetor plus Billet Specialties valve covers and air cleaner. Making spark for the little mouse motor is credited to a GM HEI distributor and Mallory spark plug wires. By now it was time to drop the small block between the frame rails and secure it in place. Helping to exit all the dirty gases is a pair of GM ram horn exhaust manifolds connected to a 2” aluminized exhaust system with Flowmaster Hushpower mufflers to give it that neat throaty sound. Transferring the power to the 9” rear end is supplied by a 700R4 tranny with an Oldsmobile Bravada shifter helping to select the right gear.
As the Kitchens were keeping a close eye on the countdown to the Austin, TX indoor show, the body was up next on the agenda. Body mods include the following, fuel tank relocated with fuel filler cap flush mounted in the wood bed, body completely smoothed, doors gapped, lower cab corners replaced along with new front panels welded in place between doors and front fenders. Also a new pickup bed was ordered from the friendly folks at Mar-K Specialized Manufacturing out of Oklahoma City, Ok. After the body and bed was completely smoothed and prepped, it was time for Ron to pull out his trusty paint gun and spray on the beautiful VW Cyber green paint from PPG. Now keep in mind the clock is still ticking, and the first coat of color just went on the cab on Dec. 14th – 34 days to go till show time. Steve Cox from Abilene, TX was the man responsible for the fine graphic work laid upon the ole “Bow Tie” hauler.
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