John Mata Jr.
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November 29, 2022
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Department
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.”
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.
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.
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.”
OWNER
Elsayet Garcia
Port Saint Lucie, FL
1999 Chevry Silverado
Aftermath
Engine
Chassis/Suspension
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
Exterior
Interior
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.
When the 1999 Chevy Silverado hit the market, it came with a range of pricing options based on the model and features.
These figures reflect the variety of choices available to cater to different preferences and budgets.
The 1999 Chevy Silverado boasts a robust drivetrain designed for performance and reliability. Here are the standout features:
These components collectively contribute to the Silverado’s strong performance and dependability whether you’re hauling heavy loads or tackling tough terrains.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 1999 Silverado revolutionized the lineup with more choices:
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.
What are some of the key technical specifications of the 1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT Standard Cab, Short Box?
Key Technical Specifications of the 1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT Standard Cab, Short Box
This blend of power, efficiency, and design makes the 1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 LT a versatile and capable choice for both daily commuting and more challenging tasks.
What engine is featured in the 1999 Chevy Silverado, and what are its specifications?
When it comes to power and performance, the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Standard Cab, Short Box presents a formidable combination of factory specifications and custom enhancements.
Now, let’s dive into the custom modifications that elevate this engine to new heights:
This blend of factory prowess and aftermarket ingenuity makes the 1999 Chevrolet Silverado a standout in performance and reliability.
What are the engine’s horsepower and torque ratings?
The engine produces 270 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 315 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
What are the specifications of the cylinder heads and camshaft?
The engine has aluminum OHV cylinder heads with two valves per cylinder, and the camshaft is chain-driven steel with roller hydraulic lifters.
What type of induction system does the engine use?
It uses an electronic sequential multipoint fuel injection system.
What is the compression ratio?
The compression ratio of the engine is 9.5:1.
What are the bore and stroke measurements?
The bore measures 3.78 inches, and the stroke is 3.62 inches.
What is the engine displacement?
The engine has a displacement of 5.3 liters, equivalent to 327 cubic inches.
What are the materials used in the engine construction?
The engine features a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads.
What is the exact engine type and configuration?
The engine is a Vortec 5300 GEN III, 90-degree V8.
What are the author’s impressions of the Chevy Silverado’s interior and design features?
“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.
Stepping inside, you immediately notice the transformation from factory to custom. 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 Rawlingswho 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.
The interior overhaul showcases a blend of style and functionality, paying homage to the classic design while elevating it with modern touches. It’s a space that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, marrying the past and present in a seamless fashion.
What exterior features catch the author’s attention?
The author appreciates the aesthetic enhancements like the stylish wheels and robust tires, which contribute to a more appealing overall look for the Silverado.
What are the author’s thoughts on the vehicle’s performance specifications?
The author is somewhat disappointed with the limitations on engine size for the ½-ton model, but acknowledges that the 5.3-liter engine offers a respectable 270 horsepower, which is an improvement over the previous year’s model.
What specific interior features are mentioned?
The author highlights features like the upgraded instrument panel, which resembles that of a sports car, and a steering wheel that is both leather-wrapped and designed with a smaller airbag for better comfort and functionality.
How does the author perceive the Silverado’s interior design compared to previous models?
The author sees a significant improvement in the Silverado’s interior, noting that it has moved away from the basic, toy-like design of earlier models to something more refined and sporty.
What are the author’s general feelings towards the Chevy Silverado?
The author initially feels lukewarm about the Chevy Silverado, viewing it as more utilitarian than exciting. However, their interest is piqued by certain design enhancements, leading to a more positive impression.
What type of vehicle is the Chevy Silverado discussed in the article?
Sweet 1999 Chevy Silverado Bagged on 24’s
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.
This 1999 Chevy Silverado is not built to be a muscle truck or a serious tow vehicle. Instead, it serves as a canvas for personal expression and family tribute. Elsayet’s creation isn’t about raw power or heavy hauling; it’s about presence and personality on the road.
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.
By focusing on aesthetics and emotional significance, this Silverado stands out as a symbol of togetherness rather than a workhorse. It reflects a deeper connection and a celebration of personal heritage, making it more than just a vehicle.
What is the relevance of the vehicle to hot rodders?
The vehicle’s appeal to hot rodders may be limited, as it does not fulfill the typical performance expectations associated with hot rodding, suggesting its value is found in other aspects such as customization or lifestyle.
What type of performance category does the vehicle not belong to?
The vehicle is not classified as a muscle truck, nor is it designed to be a serious tow vehicle, indicating that its strengths lie outside traditional performance or towing capabilities.
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