Top 6 Upgrades To Transform Classic Chevy C/K Trucks Into Restomod Icons

Once workhorses of the automotive industry, classic trucks are enjoying an easy life these days as popular options for classic car collectors and enthusiasts. The classic Chevy C/K truck is leading the charge in this segment thanks to high-volume original production and modern-day parts availability. While the charm of vintage trucks, like the Chevy C/K, is undeniable, they lack the power, comfort, and performance we expect today. That’s where the art of a restomodding comes in: keeping the soul of these classic trucks alive while upgrading them with modern powertrains, high-performance suspensions, and luxurious interiors.

If you’re ready to take a classic Chevy C/K truck and turn it into a rolling work of art that blends retro style with cutting-edge performance, here are the top 6 upgrades to elevate your build from an old farm truck to restomod legend.

Powertrain Swap

The most important upgrade for any restomod is a modern engine swap, and the benefit of performing such an upgrade on the classic Chevy C/K truck is the abundance of engine options available. The old carbureted engines, while charming, lack the efficiency, power, and reliability of today’s technology. A modern LS-series V8 or LT engine is the go-to choice for restomod enthusiasts. Velocity currently uses the 455-horsepower 6.2L LT1 V8 in its Chevy and Scout builds, and this engine pairs with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission. To maximize the engine’s power and give the engine an impressive rumble, Velocity builds all receive a custom-made performance exhaust system.

Driveline

Engine swaps are the perfect place to start for a classic Chevy C/K truck restomod, but don’t forget about the rest of the driveline to create a vehicle that is reliable and fun to drive. Regardless of whether you’re building a low-riding street truck or a go-anywhere 4x4, new axles improve durability and performance thanks to more robust axle shafts and improved differential gearing. For off-road vehicles, a durable transfer case is essential to make sure the driveline can handle the extra engine power and torque. If you’re spending all the time and money on an engine/driveline swap, don’t skimp on the driveshafts! All driveline components on Velocity restomod build are brand-new… never rebuilt!

Brakes/Suspension

The original suspension on the classic Chevy C/K truck was built for durability and heavy loads but lacked the precision and comfort that modern drivers expect. Ditching the old-school leaf springs in favor of adjustable coilover shocks and four-link suspension brings significant benefits, including sharper handling, improved cornering, and greater stability. With increased power and enhanced handling, the factory drum brakes of older C/K trucks are no longer sufficient for today’s driving demands. Upgrading to a four-wheel disc brake system with high-performance calipers and ventilated rotors drastically improves braking performance, ensuring shorter stopping distances and better heat dissipation under hard braking. Velocity K10 and K5 Blazer builds utilize Wilwood four-wheel performance disc brakes, while the C10 gets the Baer big brake kit.

Chassis Upgrade

The stock chassis of a classic Chevy C/K was built for durability but lacks the refinement and rigidity required for high-performance applications. Strengthening the OE chassis is a great place to start, but if you want vintage Chevy truck that rides and handles like a new truck, performing a chassis swap is a great idea. Velocity trusts the experts at Roadster Shop to build the Velocity Exclusive frames for all 4x4 trucks and the Roadster Shop Spec Chassis for the street cars and trucks.

Interior

While a classic truck’s exterior might exude vintage cool, its interior often needs modernization to meet today’s comfort and convenience standards. Upgrading the seats and upholstery can make a world of difference, but adding modern technologies such as power windows, air conditioning, a digital instrument cluster, and a modern stereo system will give your old-school Chevy a new-school feel. If you’re looking to take on a DIY build, be sure to check out the available Velocity Interior Packages (for K5 Blazer) offering seat-only and full interior packages.

Exterior

The exterior is where a classic truck makes its first impression, and giving the vintage Chevy C/K trucks a modernized yet tasteful look is essential for a restomod. Subtle modifications always improve the truck’s look, but a high-quality paint job separates any build. Take modernization a step further with features such as upgraded LED lighting, high-performance wheels and tires, and stand-out features like the custom-machined billet accessories offered by Velocity.

Velocity Restorations: Offering A Trio Of Classic Chevy C/K Restomods

For those seeking a turnkey solution to create a classic Chevy C/K restomod, Velocity Restorations offers three distinct Chevy builds alone. Each build features modernized powertrains, custom interiors, and bespoke styling, ensuring every truck is ready to turn heads and dominate the road. In 2023, Velocity expanded its lineup of restomods to include the Chevy K5 Blazer, and in 2024, it launched the C10 street truck and K10 4x4.

Velocity is a leader in the classic car restoration industry with an unrivaled commitment to craftsmanship and quality and boasts the most extensive lineup of classic car and truck restomods. Each vehicle undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring unparalleled reliability and longevity, and Velocity reimagines these trucks to honor Chevrolet’s legacy while providing drivers with modern performance and everyday usability. Whether you’re cruising the boulevard, hitting the back roads, or dominating the show circuit, these vehicles offer unmatched style and capability.