John Mata Jr.
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November 09, 2023
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c10
Richard Hopkins of Burlington, North Carolina, used to have a pretty cool vintage Chevy pickup back when he was younger. Although the truck is now gone, he still has the greatest memories spent working on it with his father, Richard Sr. (Big Rich). Although that particular truck wasn’t exactly his dream ride, it was still a great project to have and it gave him a great excuse to spend some quality time with his dad.
“…I was set on finding the exact truck that I wanted then so that my son and I could share some of the same experiences I did with my father.”
“That old truck of mine was a ’66 Chevy C10 longbed”, Richard says. “I always wanted a big window shortbed, but I enjoyed what I had back then. Now that I’m older, I was set on finding the exact truck that I wanted so that my son and I could share some of the same experiences I did with my father.”
It didn’t take long for Richard to find the truck he had been coveting for decades. With the keys in his hand for a ’66 C10 with that big back window/shortbed combo, he began work on what would be an absolute showstopper when the Hopkins men were finished with it. Oh yeah, Big Rich hadn’t given up building trucks just yet, and he was ready to help his son as he set out to dig in on yet another classic Chevy pickup.
Before Big Rich got to work, however, Junior kicked off the project by installing Porterbuilt drop member units to the front and rear to get the ’66 sitting down low. Richard then properly upgraded the drop member systems by bolting on Firestone air bags and Ridetech HQ shocks, dual Viair compressors, and an Accuair e-Level air management to quickly and accurately dial in the desired ride height for cruising.
“…Junior kicked off the project by installing Porterbuilt drop member units to the front and rear to get the ’66 sitting down low.”
The completed frame was thoroughly powdercoated once all the components had been test fitted to keep everything uniform and well protected from the elements. Richard also treated his truck to Unisteer power rack-and-pinion steering and went so far as to remove the OEM fuel tank to clean and reseal it before mounting it right back in the factory location.
The factory front braking components were removed and slated to hit the junk pile. They would be replaced with fresh, modular disc brake kits from CPP. The rear drum brakes were serviced, however, as the drums would remain intact for the time being. A Wilwood tandem master cylinder with proportioning valve was added to the mix, as were anodized black caliper covers for an unassuming appearance. Since Richard was looking to staying true to his truck’s timeless ’60s styling, he selected a set of 22×9 Centerline Smoothie wheels that have been finished off with chrome retro hubcaps and performance Falken tires.
With a solid rolling chassis now intact, Richard then moved on to removing the C10’s engine and dropping in something much more special. Big Rich had a ’57 Chevy that he has planned on building soon, as well as a ’57 Chevy 283 V-8 to go along with it that he was interested in breaking in.
“The Chevy C60 air cleaner had to be sectioned, chopped, and rotated 180-degrees in order to clear the underside of the hood.”
Well, the truck was in need of something to power it, so that’s where that classic GM mill is currently residing—a perfect solution for the scenario. This engine wasn’t whipped by just any means though. The father/son duo had souped it up properly, and it now features some very cool performance additions that also make a lasting visual impression underneath the truck’s hood.
Given the C10’s current low-as-hell ride height, a few things had to be done in order for a few things to fit better. The Chevy C60 air cleaner had to be sectioned, chopped and rotated 180-degrees to clear the underside of the hood. The transmission crossmember had to be altered for the Deeds Engineering modular exhaust system to be fed through the frame and not underneath it. After a few more tweaks and additions to the engine, the guys were soon ready to mount a 1969 TH350 transmission, along with an Inland Empire 2-piece driveshaft while still utilizing the factory ’66 Chevy 12-bolt rearend.
“Aside from the routine metal work to get the truck ready for paint, Richard utilized the availability of SelfMade Fab’s shaved and bead-rolled firewall panels and front and rear wheel tubs.”
“Inside the cab, a combination of pewter material was utilized when reupholstering the factory bench seat and the factory Deluxe model steering wheel.”
A lot of hard work had been sunk into the project at this point, but Richard was nowhere near ready to slow down on its progress. With the engine and transmission well taken care of, the next phase of the build was one that would not present any curveballs for Richard. Being an expert body shop technician, he was well equipped to take on the upcoming body and paintwork in what would be the easiest stretch of the seven-year ordeal. Aside from the routine metal work to get the truck ready for paint, Richard utilized the availability of SelfMade Fab’s shaved and bead-rolled firewall panels and front and rear wheel tubs. A factory C60 grill was then chrome plated before installation, and a wood bed floor was laid down and finished off with a center access panel to better reach the vital components below deck.
Next, Richard began the process of narrowing down paint colors, which promptly halted once he landed on PPG’s Dodge Hemi Orange Pearl for the body and Wimbledon White for the roof. With the inclusion of more freshly chromed parts and pieces, the exterior of the ’66 was looking as cool and timeless as it gets.
Inside the cab, a combination of pewter material was utilized when reupholstering the factory bench seat and the factory Deluxe model steering wheel. A matching fawn-colored paint was then selected to cover the dash and door panels. The interior color palette is independent of that used on the truck’s outward landscape, which makes for a welcomed change of environment while settling in for a long drive. The toned-down in-cab appearance matches the classic demeanor of the truck’s exterior with its smooth, subtle styling—a feat that wasn’t so simple to pull off.
“The one thing the truck constantly gets compliments on is its originality with that little bit of custom flare…”
Once the dust settled on the project, Richard Jr. finally had the truck he had wanted years ago—only in better condition than he could’ve ever imagined. While time and money always present hurdles with a project this extensive, he took it all in stride. Richard had an exact vision in mind, so to get there, he took the extra time to do things right, and he saved up the extra money required to purchase the specific parts he just had to have.
“The only advice I can give to anyone is that do not ever give up on your vision,” Richards offers. “If you have a certain look that you want to maintain throughout your project, go that extra mile and do what you have to do. The one thing the truck constantly gets compliments on is its originality with that little bit of custom flare, which was actually more difficult than I would’ve guessed. I am hoping this truck will give my son and me the opportunity to create wonderful memories like how I was able to make with my dad.”
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Are there any private seller listings for the 1966 Chevrolet C10?
Looking for a 1966 Chevrolet C10 from a Private Seller?
Yes, there are private seller listings for the 1966 Chevrolet C10. Here’s a glimpse of what you might find:
Private sellers often offer unique vehicles with special customizations you might not find through dealers. It’s worth exploring these listings if you’re in the market for a 1966 Chevrolet C10.
Can I view the mileage information for the 1966 Chevrolet C10 listings?
Absolutely! Here’s the mileage information for the 1966 Chevrolet C-10 listing:
This detailed data ensures you know exactly how much this classic truck has been driven and its key mechanical specifications. Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further details!
Are there any rare or unique 1966 Chevrolet C10 models available?
If you’re on the lookout for exceptional and unique classic trucks, the 1966 Chevrolet C10 has some standout models that should pique your interest. Here are some noteworthy variants:
This model is incredibly rare and offers a nostalgic blend of utility and style that is increasingly hard to find in today’s market.
The step-side pickup not only looks unique but also retains all the rugged functionality expected from a classic truck.
For those needing more cargo capacity without sacrificing the classic aesthetics, the long bed fleetside is a perfect fit.
The Apache models come with various engine options and heavy-duty features, making them highly desirable for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re looking for utility, aesthetics, or a bit of both, the 1966 Chevrolet C10 lineup has rare and unique models that cater to various tastes and requirements. These trucks aren’t just transportation; they are pieces of automotive history. Keep an eye out for these gems to add a touch of classic American engineering to your collection.
What details are provided for each 1966 Chevrolet C10 listing?
Details Provided for Each 1966 Chevrolet C10 Listing
Each listing for a 1966 Chevrolet C10 offers specifics about the truck’s condition, modifications, and pricing. The listings also indicate whether the seller is a dealership or a private seller.
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Page Details for 1966 Chevrolet C10 Listings
For those interested in the 1966 Chevrolet C10, there are a total of 3 pages of listings available. Each page displays 15 results, and given that there are 43 vehicles that match your search, you can browse through these pages to find the perfect classic truck.
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How many 1966 Chevrolet C10 vehicles are currently listed for sale?
Currently, there are 43 listings available for 1966 Chevrolet C10 vehicles.
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What are some related stories about other 1966 Chevy C10 models?
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What makes Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab stand out as a featured vehicle?
Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab is a standout vehicle, capturing attention with its unique blend of classic appeal and personalized charm. At the heart of its allure is the meticulously preserved original paint, which boasts a beautifully aged patina, showcasing the truck’s authentic character and history.
The attention to detail in preserving this vintage look, while maintaining the truck’s integrity, sets it apart on any road or show floor. Moreover, the well-preserved exterior not only reflects a dedication to authenticity but also enhances its nostalgic aesthetic, making it a true conversation starter for automotive enthusiasts.
In addition, the truck’s classic lines, complemented by subtle custom touches, further highlight Caleb’s skill and passion for restoration. This combination of originality and personal flair makes this Chevy a compelling and unforgettable feature in any collection.
What is the significance of the truck’s original 283 engine and its replacement?
The truck’s original 283 engine was significant because it laid the groundwork for the vehicle’s performance despite needing some initial repairs. Once Caleb addressed the necessary bodywork and brake issues, the engine ran smoothly, allowing the truck to be a reliable mode of transport. However, over time, Caleb aimed to enhance the truck’s performance capabilities.
After three years, he replaced the original engine with a powerful 355 cubic inch V-8. This upgrade marked a transformation, giving the truck not just a new lease of life, but also significantly boosting its performance and power. The change highlights Caleb’s commitment to improving his vehicle beyond its original specifications, enhancing both its functionality and driving experience.
How can individuals potentially get their vehicles featured similarly?
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What modifications and upgrades have been made to Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab?
Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab has undergone a series of notable modifications and upgrades, transforming it into a remarkable vehicle. Originally equipped with a standard engine, Caleb swapped it out for a robust 355 cubic inch V-8. This powerful engine is built around a 1970 four-bolt main block and incorporates a steel crankshaft partnered with flat-top aluminum pistons, achieving a compression ratio of 11.5:1.
Key engine enhancements include:
For exhaust and sound, the truck features a full 2-inch exhaust setup culminating in dual Black Widow Venom 250 mufflers, offering both a throaty growl and efficient exhaust flow.
The transmission remains true to the truck’s roots with an original Muncie three-speed manual, shifted from the column.
In terms of suspension, the truck sits lower to the ground with a drop of 2 inches in the front and 4 inches in the rear, thanks to CPP springs, ensuring a sleeker profile and improved handling.
The wheels have also been customized; the front sports stock 15×6 steel wheels, while the rear is outfitted with larger Wheels Vintiques 15×8 Smoothies, providing a balanced stance and enhanced grip on the road.
These modifications collectively refine the C10’s performance and aesthetics, making it both a head-turner and a more formidable machine on the road.
What are some trending topics in the automotive world mentioned in the passage?
These topics showcase the dynamic nature of the automotive industry, with innovations and controversies keeping enthusiasts and experts alike engaged.
What are the features of the suspension and wheels on Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab?
Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab showcases impressive custom features that enhance both its appearance and performance.
These enhancements ensure that the Chevy C10 not only turns heads but also provides a distinctive driving experience.
What are the specifications of the engine in Caleb Voirol’s 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab?
Caleb Voirol’s stunning 1966 Chevy C10 Custom Cab boasts a formidable engine that’s sure to impress any car enthusiast. Here’s a detailed look at its specifications:
This meticulously built engine showcases a blend of classic design and modern engineering, making the custom cab a remarkable piece of machinery.
What future plans does Caleb Voirol have for his 1966 Chevy C10?
Caleb Voirol envisions a long and adventurous future with his 1966 Chevy C10. He is committed to adopting a lifestyle where he embraces the challenges and joys of truck ownership—driving, encountering any breakdowns, and eagerly tackling repairs. Caleb and his family are looking forward to creating many more memories with this truck, emphasizing their intention to continue enjoying it for years ahead.
How has Caleb Voirol used his 1966 C10 since purchasing it in 2014?
Since acquiring the 1966 C10 in 2014, Caleb Voirol has made it an integral part of his daily life. This classic truck reliably shuttles him to and from work in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Beyond its daily duties, it has been a faithful companion on countless family road trips, exploring areas far beyond their hometown. Notably, in 2019, Caleb took the C10 on a long journey to participate in a well-known automotive tour, further highlighting its role in both his everyday and adventure-filled outings.
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