When Ronnie Allen embarked on the journey of restoring his 1972 C10, he envisioned a machine capable of tearing up the autocross track. However, the project took a turn, resulting in a Pro Touring-style truck so special that racing it seemed out of the question. “The LS engines make good horsepower and are dependable,” Allen explained at the C10 Nationals event at Texas Motor Speedway. “When I originally started this truck, I was going to build it to autocross, but now that it’s turned out the way it has, I really don’t want to race it.”
From Vision to Reality
The story of “Bruzer” began in 2015 when Allen purchased the C10 in Chickasha, Oklahoma. The cab is the only remaining original part; the rest of the sheet metal is brand new. Over two years, Allen and his son, Justin, meticulously performed all the mechanical and fabrication work.
Power and Performance
“Bruzer” is powered by a Chevrolet Performance LS376/525 crate engine, a part of the Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System. This engine, known for its aggressive ASA camshaft, delivers 525 horsepower and 486 lb.-ft. of torque. Mated to a SuperMatic 4L70-E four-speed automatic transmission, the LS376/525 provides both power and reliability. “It’s all one package, you get the wiring harness, computers and everything, it’s just kind of plug and play,” Allen noted.
Eye-Catching Design
The truck’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable. Painted in a two-tone style with blue on the top and bottom and black in the middle, “Bruzer” showcases an inverse of its original colors. Achieving the perfect House of Kolor blue took nearly 20 spray outs. Body specialist Travis Hamilton executed the paint job, while LMC woodgrain trim and sequential LED tail lights add to the truck’s unique look.
Inside the engine bay, chrome accents, including Billet Specialties valve covers, complement the LS power plant. Fuel delivery is handled by a Rick’s Tanks stainless steel fuel tank, and a two-and-a-half-inch Flowmaster stainless steel exhaust system with side exit expels exhaust gases.
Handling and Suspension
“Bruzer” rides on a Roadster Shop FAST TRACK chassis, ensuring optimal handling and performance. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, 19 x 10 in the front and 20 x 12 in the rear, are mounted on Boze wheels. Fourteen-inch, six-piston Baer brakes provide exceptional stopping power. Custom modifications, including tubbed rear fenders, a front splitter, and a rear spoiler, enhance the truck’s aggressive stance.
Interior and Finishing Touches
The truck’s interior features seats from a 2016 Impala, a custom-built center console, a Billet Specialties steering wheel, Auto Meter Cobalt gauges, and a Vintage Air system. The bed is lined with raw teak wood from Bedwood, meticulously finished with a dozen coats of clear by Chuck Richardson.
A Family Affair
Ronnie and his wife, Tina, who frequently attend local shows and major events like the C10 Nationals and Goodguys Rod & Custom Association programs, have made “Bruzer” a central part of their lives. They plan to travel even more once Tina retires from 3M Company, joining Ronnie in enjoying the fruits of their labor and passion.
Continuing the Legacy
Ronnie Allen isn’t stopping with “Bruzer.” He is currently working on another 1972 Chevy truck and his son’s 1970 Chevrolet pickup. “I like them all, but I’m pretty partial to Chevy,” Allen said, reflecting on his ongoing dedication to the automotive hobby.
Specifications
- Engine: Chevrolet Performance LS376/525 crate engine
- Horsepower: 525 hp
- Torque: 486 lb.-ft.
- Transmission: SuperMatic 4L70-E four-speed automatic
- Chassis: Roadster Shop FAST TRACK
- Brakes: 14-inch, six-piston Baer brakes
- Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
- Wheels: Boze (19 x 10 front, 20 x 12 rear)
- Exhaust: Flowmaster stainless steel, 2.5-inch side exit
Ronnie Allen’s “Bruzer” stands as a testament to his craftsmanship and passion for Chevrolet trucks, embodying both performance and style in a stunning Pro Touring package.
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
This Article use tools from Chatgpt
