Combo Deal, Corvette LS1-Powered Toyota

LS swaps have become an extremely popular choice for anyone restoring old trucks, thanks to the power, reliability and technology offered by GM engines. Usually, a swapped LS sees its way into a muscle car, C-10 or classic Chevy or similar trucks. But sometimes an odd combo finds its way into the scene.

Von Chounlamany of Laodies Kustomz in Douds, Iowa, is known for creating custom minis of the import variety. When Von came across a truly imported ’67 Toyota Stoute it had a perfect patina but no engine. He got the idea to toss an LS engine into the classic mini-truck. The mix of automotive ingredients proved to be a great combination, and has even allowed Von to autocross the slammed truck at Goodguys events since the truck is powered by an American engine even though it features old school Japanese mini heritage on the outside.

With the large 5.7L Corvette LS engine fitting snug under the factory hood, a full frame using a 1993 Toyota pickup front clip was grafted to body drop the mini to the ground. A RideTech valve block with air from AIM compressors helps handle the air ride needs to clear the factory 14-inch steel wheels with 1979 Toyota hubcaps wrapped in stock 195/75/14 tires. The body was kept naturally patina’d, and an old bed floor was used along with ammo-style toolbox to house the components. The inside was kept factory as well save for recovered seats and a Scan Gauge II to help run the LS engine, as well as a Yoda bobble-head on the dash.

While some may see a body-dropped old school mini-truck on factory wheels, one roar of the engine as it flies by hints at the secret horse-power that lies under the imported sheet metal. ST

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TRUCK SPECS

OWNER

Von “LoAsian” Chounlamany
Douds, IA 1967 Toyota Stoute
Negative Camber

ENGINE

• 5.7L Corvette LS1

SUSPENSION

• 1993 Toyota front clip
• Stock floor body drop frame
• RideTech air valves
• AIM air compressor

WHEELS & TIRES

• 14-inch 1979 Toyota hubcaps
• 195/75/14 tires

BODY & PAINT

• Wood bed floor
• Ammo can toolbox
• FJ40 taillights

INTERIOR

• Scan Gauge II
• Recovered seats
• Yoda bobblehead
• Lokar shifter

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