Sweet 1999 Chevy Silverado Bagged on 24’s

Togetherness in the Form of a 1999 chevy Silverado

 Building a custom truck can mean a lot of different things to different folks. While there is no single “right” reason to do it, Elsayet Garcia of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, was looking to focus past creating a truck that was simply just for show or cruising during the weekends. Does he plan on taking his 1999 Chevy Silverado to shows and driving it around whenever possible? Yes, of course. His real reason for building the truck, however, was to honor his family—both those who are currently here and those important members who he has lost over the years. 

“Essentially, I aimed at building this truck in the memory of my grandfather,” says Elsayet. “He didn’t get me into custom trucks or anything like that. It has always been something that I liked on my own. Once I started my family and began to place my attention towards starting a career, he pushed me to sell my ‘bagged S-10 I had at the time and spend that money on books for school. Once the chips fell into place, thanks to my wife I was able to purchase this Silverado, which I decided to dedicate to my grandfather because if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Improvements Begin

Elsayet purchased his Silverado truck back in 2017, and it took him about a year or so to figure out and correct all the wiring and motor issues that came with it. It had been previously ‘bagged on 22s with a cup kit in the front and a 2-link at the rear—nothing too crazy but effective.

“I knew I wanted the Silverado to be a sport truck,” says Elsayet. “I’ve always like the style of a clean, low pickup on big wheels, so that is what I was going for when I started to get to work on this project.”

The suspension system was the first phase of the build that Elsayet began working on, and the one that made the largest improvement on his truck’s overall looks and user friendliness. All the truck’s existing modifications were removed and tossed aside in place of a Twisted Metalworkz front end kit, as well as a Reklez Suspension 3-link rear setup complete with a monster notch kit. Air Lift 2600 Dominator ‘bags and Doetsch shocks have taken up residence at each corner to assist in providing a low stance with a great ride quality. The Concept Shop in Miami was able to pour their expertise into project to ensure everything was done right the first time around.

To take full advantage of the truck’s newfound ability to lay low, Elsayet asked for the ability for a set of staggered 24/26-inch wheels to be unlocked.

“I’ve had an ’06 Silverado crew cab on 22s with a static drop, but nothing like this current setup before,” he says. “I was ready to go above and beyond with this build, so I figured why not have the professionals go big with it?”

Elsayet’s son chose the Intro Rally wheels (nice choice, kid!), which required a 5-lug conversion to make it happen, but the extra work was totally worth it in the end. Getting the large wheel selection to fit properly was one of the most challenging aspects of the build by far, but it was the exact look they were after.

Sporty Silverado

Next, much attention was placed on the rest of the Silverado’s outward appearance.

“I have always loved the SS but never really cared for the ’03-’06 front clip,” Elsayet admits. “Instead of upgrading to something I knew I wasn’t going to love, I went with the traditional ’99-’02 2500 front grille and bumper but added the SS cladding to give it a much more sportier look. Also, I flared out the front and rear bedsides for a wider appearance.”

To add to the Silverado’s sportier demeanor, Elsayet included an AMD cowl hood, and went ahead and had the bed pockets and antenna shaved right off. While the truck is currently waiting in line for a fresh paintjob, the GM Jet Black paint has been buffed and polished to a brilliant shine to make the most of the existing factory spray job.

The factory 5.3L engine was upgraded a bit to encourage better air circulation, but Elsayet really stopped and took some time to outfit the interior with a much needed overhaul. A custom bench seat from Snowden was covered in a deep burgundy vinyl material to offset the dark paint found on the exterior. Upholstery by Greg was happy to join the project, as was Chris Rawlings who cooked up custom door panels and speaker grilles for the redesign. Automotive Designs fabricated a custom sub enclosure, and a generous helping of billet accessories was peppered throughout the cab for good measure, although most eyes land on the matching Intro Rally steering wheel for obvious reasons.

Far from Complete

With the Silverado currently sitting in such great condition, Elsayet will be the first to admit that the truck is far from being complete.

“My grandfather loved how the truck was taking shape, but he wasn’t able to see it in its final stage. He passed on March 3, 2021, and since then I have really jumped on finishing it up to honor him.”

Even though the truck was dedicated to his grandfather, Elsayet was able to recognize the gift of being present and cherish the time working on it with his wife, kids, as well as his Aftermath Florida family as well.

“This whole process has inspired my kids to build an S-10 and a Tacoma to be their first custom trucks, so we have those to look forward to in the future,” Elsayet says. “We have a lot of great ideas for those two minis, and we are eager to enjoy more quality time together in the garage and at shows.”

TRUCK SPECS

OWNER

Elsayet Garcia
Port Saint Lucie, FL
1999 Chevry Silverado
Aftermath 

Engine

• Factory 1999 Vortec 5.3L V-8
• Texas Speed long tube 1-3/4-inch headers
• S&B cold air intake
• MagnaFlow X Muffler
• RK Speed custom tune
• MSD wires
• 1999 4L60E transmission
• Corvette servo
• Escalade transmission cooler
• Shortened rearend with Moser Axles by Ryan @ Pro Fab Florida

Chassis/Suspension

• Shop: The Concept Shop, Miami
• Twisted Metalworkz front end kit
• Reklez Suspension Works 3-link rear w/ monster notch
• Air Lift 2600 Dominator ‘bags
• Doetsch shocks

Wheels, Tires & Brakes 

• 24 and 26-inch Intro Rally wheels w/ reverse lip
• Lexani tires
• Powerstop 13-inch brake kits
• OEM master cylinder
• Hydrobooster swapped

Exterior 

• Paint by Benny/Craig @ The Concept Shop, Miami / Rainier and Vidal @ Kangoo Collision / Scott Refice @ Intense Works
• Factory GM Jet Black
• OEM Silverado 2500 grille and front bumper
• AMD cowl hood
• Shaved bed pockets and antenna
• Webasto spoiler sunroof
• Factory SS cladding and wing

Interior 

• Shop: Upholstery by Greg (interior) & Chris Rawlings (custom door panels)
• Custom bench by Snowden Seats
• Covered in red wine colored vinyl
• US Speedo instruments
• Intro Rally steering wheel
• Custom door panels and speaker grilles
• Maxima door handles
• Billet accessories
• Custom subwoofer box by Rob @ Automotive Designs
• Pioneer double-DIN receiver

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the author’s perspective on the potential of a 6.0L ½-ton SS model for the Silverado?

The author shows a keen interest in the potential for a 6.0L ½-ton SS model for the Silverado. They believe it’s high time to bring this concept to life. This suggestion underscores a desire for a powerful, performance-oriented version of the truck, which could attract enthusiasts and meet a gap in the market.

By advocating for the introduction of such a model, the author implies that this move would validate consumer interest and elevate the vehicle’s status among similar offerings from competitors. The sentiment indicates that the author sees value in expanding the Silverado’s lineup to include a sportier, more robust variant.

What was the base and tested price of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado?

When the 1999 Chevy Silverado hit the market, it came with a range of pricing options based on the model and features.

• Base Price: Starting at $19,450, the entry-level model provided a solid set of standard features.
• Tested Price: For those opting for additional upgrades and premium features, the price as tested climbed to $22,910.

These figures reflect the variety of choices available to cater to different preferences and budgets.

What are the key features of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado’s drivetrain?

Key Features of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado’s Drivetrain

The 1999 Chevy Silverado boasts a robust drivetrain designed for performance and reliability. Here are the standout features:

• Transmission: The Silverado is equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission featuring overdrive. This configuration ensures smooth gear transitions and boosts fuel efficiency during highway driving.
• Rear Differential: The truck sports a 10-bolt rear differential, which includes a 3.73:1 ring and pinion gear ratio. This setup enhances the vehicle’s towing capability and provides superior traction under varying road conditions.

These components collectively contribute to the Silverado’s strong performance and dependability whether you’re hauling heavy loads or tackling tough terrains.

How does the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado’s quarter-mile performance compare to the 1990 454SS Chevy pickup?

Performance Comparison: 1999 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1990 454SS Chevy Pickup

To gauge how the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado stacks up against the 1990 454SS Chevy pickup in quarter-mile performance, let’s dive into some key details.

1990 454SS Chevy Pickup

• Quarter-Mile Time: 16.10 seconds
• Key Feature: Equipped with 3.73 final drive ratio
• Performance Note: Though it didn’t boast blazing speed, its trap speeds were quite competitive for its time.

1999 Chevrolet Silverado

The 1999 Silverado, unlike the 454SS, was not marketed as a performance truck. It’s more in line with general utility and comfort advancements rather than pure speed. Despite that, it offers modern engineering improvements and more refined drivability.

Quick Insights:

• Intended Use: The 1990 model was tailored towards muscle truck enthusiasts, whereas the 1999 model emphasizes versatility.
• Speed Metrics: While exact quarter-mile times for the 1999 Silverado can vary based on trim and engine, it generally does not outperform the 16.10 seconds recorded by the 454SS. Most configurations of the 1999 Silverado focus more on towing capacity and fuel efficiency.

In essence, while the 1990 454SS Chevy pickup boasts a solid quarter-mile performance for its era, the 1999 Silverado represents a shift towards enhanced utility and broader appeal, rather than raw quarter-mile speed.

What were the results of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado’s quarter-mile performance tests?

Results of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado’s Quarter-Mile Performance Tests

Testing at the Los Angeles County Raceway with the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado revealed consistent results across various modifications and techniques. Initially, the factory tires provided adequate traction, which was reaffirmed through multiple launch approaches. Applying a little preload to the torque converter proved most effective.

The automatic transmission shifted gears at the 5,000rpm redline, but the engine’s drop in rpm softened the performance due to its high torque peak of 4,000rpm. Manually shifting gears at higher rpm didn’t yield any performance gain, nor did removing the air-cleaner element.

Despite experimenting with different methods, the timeslips were nearly uniform. The best recorded, after adjusting for all variables, was a corrected quarter-mile time of 15.71 seconds at a speed of 86 mph.

How did the switch from aftermarket to factory tires affect the Silverado’s handling and ride quality?

Switching from aftermarket tires to factory-installed ones had a noticeable impact on the Silverado’s performance. The truck’s handling and ride quality significantly declined after moving away from the trusty 275/60-17 tires.

Handling

The nimble control previously enjoyed with the aftermarket tires disappeared. The factory options failed to deliver the same level of responsiveness, making the truck feel less stable, especially during sharp turns and maneuvers.

Ride Quality

The overall comfort took a hit as well. Where the aftermarket tires had provided a smooth and cushioned ride, the factory tires instead led to a bumpier and less enjoyable experience. The truck now seemed more susceptible to vibrations and minor road imperfections.

In summary, the transition to factory-installed tires compromised both the Silverado’s handling precision and its ride comfort.

What are the author’s impressions of the Silverado’s handling on winding roads like Mulholland Drive?

Author’s Impressions of the Silverado’s Handling on Winding Roads

When navigating the winding roads of Mulholland Drive, the author found the Silverado to be unexpectedly nimble and stable. Initially cautious through the tight bends, the vehicle’s grip and stability surpassed expectations, leading the author to drive more aggressively.

Notably, the truck managed to keep pace with smaller, sportier cars, much to the surprise of other drivers. The all-wheel disc brakes and ABS proved effective, providing ample stopping power and control, even when the author pushed the vehicle past comfortable limits.

While the author stops short of labeling the Silverado as a road-course contender, there’s clear appreciation for its improved handling abilities. This full-size truck demonstrated a level of performance on curvy roads that is rarely associated with vehicles of its class.

Key Takeaways:

• Unexpected Stability:Suprised by the vehicle’s grip through tight corners.
• Impressed Braking:Highlighted the efficiency of the all-wheel disc brakes and ABS.
• Competitive Performance:The truck could hold its own against smaller vehicles.
• Balanced Review:Acknowledged limitations, yet praised handling improvements.

How does the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado perform in city traffic?

Performance of the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado in City Traffic

Navigating the urban jungle in the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado reveals interesting aspects about its capabilities. Despite initial concerns about the limited road space, the Silverado manages to hold its own. Its 5.3-liter engine hints at untapped potential, offering a glimpse of power when prompted.

Acceleration and Throttle Response

While driving through city streets, the throttle response feels robust, almost promising more than what is immediately delivered. However, it feels more like a tailored response rather than raw power. The vehicle’s “launch feel” is crafted to provide a sense of anticipation, especially noticeable when you press down hard on the gas pedal from a stop.

Maneuverability and Handling

City driving often means frequent stops and tight maneuvering. The Silverado handles these with relative ease, although its bulk can be a factor in more congested areas. The transition from a full stop to movement is smooth, yet if you push it too hard, you might find yourself dealing with a bit of wheel spin and tire squeal.

Real-World Testing

On quieter streets, you can fully test its capabilities. Flattening the accelerator causes the intake to unleash a deep roar, and the rear tires might even lose a bit of traction. This high-energy response is thrilling, yet in practical terms, it showcases the truck’s raw power which is more than enough for everyday city traffic. However, such spirited driving may quickly cause the transmission to gear up rapidly, curtailing the burst of excitement.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado performs admirably in city conditions, combining ample power with controlled handling. While it may lack some finesse when accelerating hard from a stop, its dependability and robust engine make it a solid choice for urban commuting.

What is the author’s initial reaction to the Chevrolet Silverado’s engine choices?

The author’s initial reaction to the Chevrolet Silverado’s engine choices was one of skepticism and mild frustration. They approach trucks with a utilitarian mindset, viewing them primarily as functional vehicles rather than objects of leisure. Despite trying to maintain an open perspective, they were disappointed by the motor options available.

Particularly irksome to them was the limitation of the largest half-ton engine to 5.3 liters (327 cubic inches), which felt reminiscent of restrictive engine specifications from the mid-1980s. This constraint led the author to question why there was no 5.7-liter engine option, highlighting a sense of dissatisfaction and a longing for more robust offerings.

How does the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado compare to previous Chevrolet truck models in terms of engine options?

The 1999 Chevrolet Silverado brought substantial changes in engine options compared to its predecessors. Previous models often left enthusiasts longing for higher displacement engines. For instance, during the mid-1980s, the ½-ton Chevy trucks were limited to a 5.0-liter engine, sparking questions about the absence of more robust options like the 5.7-liter or even a 6.0-liter engine, which were reserved for heavier-duty ¾-ton chassis.

Engine Options Over the Years

• Mid-1980s: ½-ton trucks featured a 5.0-liter (305 ci) engine.
• Pre-1999 Models: Struggled to move past the standard 5.7-liter (350 ci) engine, particularly in ½-ton trucks.

Enter the 1999 Silverado

The 1999 Silverado revolutionized the lineup with more choices:

1. 3-liter V6: A solid entry-level option.
2. 8-liter V8: Offering a balanced mix of power and efficiency.
3. 3-liter V8: The most significant option for ½-ton models, it brought enhanced performance.

These advancements meant drivers no longer felt restricted by limited engine capacities, especially in the ½-ton segment. The new 5.3-liter V8 in particular filled the power void that users had noted in earlier generations.

The 1999 chevy Silverado thus marked a key evolution in the truck’s engine lineup, providing a wider range of robust options, even for the typically less powerhouse ½-ton models. This move undoubtedly addressed the common frustrations of the past, delivering the power and performance that truck enthusiasts had been waiting for.