The 1963 GMC Custom Pickup has been transformed from a mid-century workhorse into a high-performance masterpiece that commands attention through its magazine-featured pedigree. This build, crossing the block at Glendale 2026, represents more than 900 hours of specialized labor focused on fit, finish, and radical modification. Utilizing a powdercoated Porterbuilt Air Ride chassis and a shaved body, this truck serves as a rolling showcase of elite craftsmanship, winning multiple awards including “Best Paint” for its flawless application of House of Kolor Metallic Gold.
Shaved Aesthetics and Slammed Stance
The visual character of this pickup is defined by its ultra-low profile and seamless bodywork, achieved through a shaved firewall and custom bead-rolled sheet metal fenders. House of Kolor clear coat is sprayed over a Metallic Gold base, while exterior trim work features a custom Candy powdercoat for a cohesive, high-end look. It sits on 22 and 24-inch Intro “Flo” two-piece billet wheels that are neatly tucked thanks to Slam Specialties air bags and an Airlift 3H auto-leveling system. An air-actuated bed cover reveals the intricate chassis work and a fully upholstered trunk, highlighting the level of detail found throughout the exterior.
Saddle Leather Luxury and 2600-Watt Audio
Inside the cabin, the environment is defined by custom Saddle TMI upholstery covering a split-bench seat and matching door panels. The shaved dash houses a flush-mounted double-DIN radio and Dakota Digital HDX gauges set within a custom billet bezel. For climate control, a Resto-Mod Air system utilizes billet vents to maintain comfort, while a custom-built center console organizes the interior space. The centerpiece of the technology suite is a 2600-watt audio system featuring four 13.5-inch JL Audio subwoofers in a sophisticated blow-through enclosure, ensuring the cabin experience is as impactful as the exterior.
Big Block 454 Authority and Precision Drivetrain
Performance is derived from a rebuilt 454 CI big block Chevrolet V-8 equipped with a TrickFlow top-end kit and aluminum cylinder heads. This engine utilizes a mild cam and roller rockers to deliver power with a refined yet aggressive character through a Turbo 400 three-speed automatic transmission. An upgraded valve body and torque converter manage the torque, which is sent to a narrowed 12-bolt rear end featuring 3.73 Richmond gears. Stopping power is absolute, provided by 14-inch Baer Pro Plus brakes with six-piston calipers, while an American Billet pulley setup manages the high-flow water pump and steering.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 454 CI Big Block V-8 |
| Transmission | Turbo 400 3-Speed Automatic |
| Chassis/Platform | Porterbuilt Air Ride Chassis (C10/K10-based) |
Dominating the Custom Truck Landscape
In the high-stakes world of custom pickups, the 1963 GMC Custom Pickup competes directly with elite Chevrolet C10 builds and early Ford F-100 restomods. Its unique selling point is its verified status as a “Classic Truck Performance Magazine” feature vehicle, which provides a layer of professional validation that standard builds lack. Market trends currently favor trucks that combine traditional big-block power with modern air-management systems like the Airlift 3H. This GMC stands out due to its extreme investment in labor and the use of premium components like Baer brakes and Intro wheels, positioning it at the top tier of collector-grade customs.
Show-Ready Reliability and Maintenance
Ownership of a magazine-level custom requires a focus on preservation, though the modern mechanicals make this GMC surprisingly usable. The aluminum radiator with dual electric fans ensures the 454 remains cool during slow-speed exhibition, while the dual aluminum tanks and VIAIR compressors provide rapid air-ride response. Every modification, from the Auburn limited slip to the custom 20-gallon fuel cell, was engineered for both show presentation and functional reliability. As a multiple award winner, this truck offers an immediate entry into the highest levels of the national show circuit with no additional sorting required.
A Pinnacle of Professional Craftsmanship
This 1963 GMC Custom Pickup is a stunning fusion of 1960s style and modern engineering, representing the absolute limit of what can be achieved with the classic GM platform. Its combination of big block power, air-ride technology, and award-winning paint ensures it remains a definitive highlight of the Glendale 2026 auction.
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Source: mecum.com
