09/14/2026
OLD BLUE IS BACK ON THE ROAD! 💙
We recently wrapped up some major mechanical upgrades project on this 1990 GMC Stepside.
While the paint and body are still on the list for a future phase, we tackled a lot underneath and throughout this truck. From a supercharged 427ci engine and completely upgraded chassis to the transmission, suspension, brakes, fuel system, exhaust, wheels and tires, this was a substantial mechanical transformation.
Here’s everything that went into this phase of the project:
CHASSIS & MECHANICAL ⚙️
• BluePrint Engines LS 427ci fuel-injected crate engine with Magnuson supercharger
• Holley Terminator X Maxx fuel injection system
• Superchargers Online heat exchanger
• Wegner Automotive two-tone diamond cut serpentine belt system
• American Autowire wiring harness
• Optima battery
• Pro Performance LSX aluminum radiator with dual fans
• Kloc Fabrication GMT400 triple tank, coolant overflow tank, crankcase breather filter/catch can, and intercooler coolant reservoir
• High-temp ceramic coated stainless steel headers
• Custom-fabricated 3-inch high-temp ceramic-coated stainless steel exhaust system with XForce Performance Exhaust Varex valved muffler
• Polished stainless steel center-exit quad exhaust tips
• FTI Performance GM 4L80E high-performance automatic overdrive transmission
• FTI Billet 2800 stall converter
• Dakota Digital cruise control kit
• Roadster Shop Standard Spec Series Complete chassis
• Fox RS VS front & rear fixed valve coilovers
• Ford 9” 3.73 ratio Tru-Trac Posi rear end
• Lowdoller Motorsports wheel speed sensor for traction control aid with billet aluminum wheel speed sensor bracket
• Baer Brakes Pro+ 14” drilled & slotted 2-piece rotors, 6-piston calipers, and e-brake
• ABS Power Brakes satin black electric high-power master cylinder
• New stainless steel fuel tank
• Aeromotive custom dual fuel pump
• V***r Worx fuel pump controller
• All new fuel lines
• Schott Performance Accelerator wheels — 9”x20” front & 12”x22” rear, polished aluminum with titanium ceramic painted centers
• Michelin Pilot Sport radial tires — 275-40-20 front & 335-35-22 rear
BODY MODIFICATION 🛠️
• Installed mini tubs in the bed to accommodate larger rear tires
INTERIOR UPDATES ⭐️
• New factory-style carpet
• HushMat thermal insulation
• Flaming River black tilt steering column
• Sparc.Industries leather-wrapped Flux steering wheel
• Classic Auto Air heat & A/C system
• Power Bass dash speakers
There’s still more to come for Old Blue, but this phase was all about giving this truck the power, chassis, braking, suspension, drivability, and modern functionality to match its next chapter.
We’re looking forward to seeing where this one goes from here. Stay tuned for Phase Two. 👀