Joe Acevedo Jr
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August 04, 2026
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c10
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Joe Acevedo Jr.
AS SEEN IN OUR C10 BUILDERS GUIDE SUMMER 2026 ISSUE – Buy Now!
There is a specific kind of gravity that pulls you toward a build of this caliber. You don’t just spot a truck like this across a crowded show field; you feel the weight of a thousand calculated decisions, the ghost of late-night garage sessions, and a relentless pursuit of “just a little better” from every angle. For the owner of this stunning hauler, the journey didn’t start with a lucky barn find; it started with a firm handshake and a vision that was six years in the making.
The story truly gained traction when the owner linked up with Brian Cruz of Cruisers’ Classics. After a few deep-dive conversations, the decision was made to skip the “patch and prayer” method and go straight for the jugular—a Roadster Shop slammed air-ride chassis. With the ultimate foundation locked in, the hunt for the perfect shell began. A clean cab was eventually sourced at the C10 Nationals in Dallas, serving as the blank canvas for what was about to become a trophy-room regular.
Starting with the right foundation was important, but Robert also wanted a bit of a rumble. To move this crimson beast, a “no-nonsense” approach was taken under the hood. An LS3 plug-and-play crate engine was dropped between the rails—the kind of reliable, neck-snapping power that ensures this truck isn’t just a trailer queen; it’s a showstopper that can still get down and perform.
Building a top-tier C10 requires a village of artisans. The body was painstakingly pieced together using premium AMD steel sourced from Outback Truck Parts, ensuring the body lines were as straight as a Texas highway. Once Hart Fab inner fender tubs were tucked into place, the truck began its residency through a gauntlet of the industry’s elite fab shops. Sisco Fab took the lead on the heavy lifting, sculpting the custom sheetmetal in the bed, the smoothed-out firewall, and those sleek radiator closeouts. Not to be outdone, Scott at Slicks Fab stepped in to finish the hood’s rear sheetmetal and get her flowing nicely. To keep the engine bay looking surgical, a hidden brake booster and ABS master cylinder were tucked away, leaving nothing but clean lines and Alumicraft aluminum grille trim rings to catch the light.
When it came time for the “make or break” stage, the truck was delivered to International Paint & Body. Under the watchful eyes of Rick and Ashley, the spray booth became a sanctuary. A timeless color combination stops onlookers in their tracks: Boyd Coddington PPG Red up top, contrasted beautifully with ’55 Chevy Almond on the bottom, expertly sprayed by TJ Powell. The depth of the finish is so profound it has already claimed “Best Paint” honors at nearly every major stop on the circuit.
Inside the cab, the artistry continues. Chris Pate at Mobile Toys was given the nod to stitch together an interior that balances modern luxury with classic truck soul. Wrapped in Relicate leather in a rich amber hue, the cabin finally had the look this truck deserved. But before the carpet was laid, the truck visited Casey Clements for a full wiring overhaul, followed by a precision tune from Lawrence at LSX Tuning to make sure that the LS3 sang the right notes through the gears.
Since its debut, this C10 hasn’t just participated; it has dominated. From being named one of Goodguys’ 2024 Top Five America’s Most Beautiful Vehicles to taking home a Pro’s Pick in Louisville, its resume speaks for itself. It’s been a t-shirt truck, a “Best in Show” winner from Lone Star to Alabama, and a constant reminder that when you combine the right parts with the right people, you don’t just build a truck, you build a legacy.
Owner
Robert Carpenter
Engine & Drivetrain
Chassis & Suspension
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
Body & Paint
Interior
Interior photos by John Jackson
My name is Joe Acevedo Jr., but most people know me as “Ace.” I’m a photographer based out of South Texas, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve had a passion for cars and trucks. Growing up ...
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