Street Trucks OBS Builders Guide 2024

WELCOME to the 5th issue of OBS Builder’s Guide! It’s hard to believe we’ve already hit this milestone, and we’re thrilled to continue bringing you the best content for your ’88-’98 Chevy and GMC trucks. This issue is packed with features, tech tips, and event coverage that every OBS enthusiast will appreciate. In this issue, we dive deep into some exciting projects, including a detailed build feature on Tim Katz’s 1990 Chevy C1500, affectionately named Bubbles. We also explore the latest and greatest products available for your truck, from Wilwood’s AERO4 big-brake kits to Vintage Air’s SureFit climate control systems. Our tech section includes a comprehensive guide on installing QA1’s Level 2 suspension kit on a 1998 Chevy Tahoe, showcasing the benefits of modern suspension upgrades. Additionally, we review the…

If you know me, then you know that I’m ALL about family! Passing on our passion and love for custom trucks to the next generation is a pretty big deal around these parts—especially if you consider how there are fewer kids running out and getting their driver’s license these days. At 16 years old, there was NOTHING getting in my way from getting my license and hitting the open road. Kids these days have a lot more distractions and “unimportant” things occupying their “free-time” so it is truly up to us as parents to pass the torch and show them our love and passion for the truck scene and all that it stands for.…

When it comes to custom trucks, Ben Jackson from Owensboro, Kentucky, knows how to turn heads. As an autobody refinishing technician, Ben’s got the skills and vision to create something truly unique. His 1996 Chevy Silverado, an awesome orange and black OBS, is a testament to his passion for cool pickups. Ben has always been into custom rides, and this Silverado has been through three different stages before reaching its current glory. The build took two years of hard work, with Ben and his buddy Heath Hoover putting in the hours to make it happen. This Silverado sports a front grille and headlights from a 2000 Cadillac Escalade, giving it a cool, modern look. The bumpers are from a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500, which adds to the custom vibe. Ben…

In the world of OBS trucks, Greg and Carrie Nettles’ 1991 Chevy C1500 is a ride that refuses to be forgotten. This beauty has a history as unique as its look, starting its journey in Riverside, California. Originally customized by Custom Camp Vans and Services, this truck hit the streets lowered with a Belltech 5/6 drop, Boyd Tri Fan wheels, a roll pan, sport mirrors, and a billet grille. After spending years with its original owner, the truck found its way to Georgia before the Nettles family snatched it up. The story of how Greg and Carrie got the truck is one for the books. Lying in bed, scrolling through Marketplace, they stumbled upon it randomly. A quick deposit later, Carrie was on a plane to Atlanta. She FaceTimed Greg,…

From climate control systems and shaved door kits to transmission upgrades and big brake kits, there have never been more products available to build a customized ’88-’98 OBS full-size pickup or SUV than there is today. Check out this hand-picked selection of aftermarket parts compiled by the editors at Motortopia.com. We’re certain you’ll find something you need for your build! WILWOOD AERO4 BIG BRAKE REAR AXLE KITS Wilwood’s AERO4 Big Brake Rear Axle Kits upgrade the factory disc brakes while retaining the OE parking brake assembly for ’88-’98 Chevy trucks. These kits feature AERO4 radial mount calipers, high-friction BP compound pads, and oversized 14-inch rotors, providing superior braking performance and durability to complement big wheel, tire, and suspension upgrades. Wilwood805-388-1188 www.wilwood.com VINTAGE AIR SUREFIT CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM Vintage Air introduces…

Say hello to this year’s OBS BG cover truck named “Bubbles,” a 1990 Chevy C1500 owned by Tim Katz, better known around the world as Skrape. This isn’t just another OBS; it’s a trip back to childhood for Tim,who is a longtime entrepreneur and current president/CEO of Black Widow Exhaust Systems. He’s also one of the founders of a brand we all know—TapoutT. Tim’s goal with Bubbles was simple: to bring back the good old days. And after a decade of blood, sweat, and gears, he’s done just that. From the outside, Bubbles keeps things pretty stock, except for some functional mods in the bed and a wild multicolored wrap courtesy of Endless Auto Salon. It’s a look that screams fun, but Tim’s not playing around when sitting behind the…