Nobody Customs & Restorations, a shop in Keithville, Louisiana, brought the concept of “Original Plus” to life with Mike Nation’s lifted and LS3-powered 1989 Chevrolet Suburban. This build, executed with meticulous attention to maintaining an original look while incorporating modern performance, has garnered significant attention and accolades.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of this Suburban lies a Chevrolet Performance LS3 crate engine, renowned for its versatility and power. This engine delivers:
- Horsepower: 430 hp
- Torque: 425 lb-ft
- Build Features: Aluminum block, L92-type rectangular-port cylinder heads, and a high-lift, hydraulic-roller camshaft.
The LS3 is part of a Chevrolet Performance Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System, paired with a SuperMatic 4L70-E four-speed automatic transmission. This setup ensures reliable performance and modern drivability, fitting seamlessly with the Suburban’s classic design.
Design and Modifications
Williams and his team started with a clean original Suburban, stripping it down for a complete rebuild. The vehicle retains its original chassis but now features a Skyjacker six-inch lift kit and 37-inch Mickey Thompson tires mounted on Raceline wheels, enhancing its rugged appeal and off-road capabilities.
The Suburban’s exterior sports a two-tone paint job using factory GM blue colors, flipped from the original layout. Light blue adorns the top and bottom, with dark blue in the middle, providing a refreshed yet classic look.
Interior Upgrades
Inside, the Suburban maintains its original style but has been updated from 1980s velour to distressed blue leather. The team upgraded all the carpet, door panels, headliner, and dash, ensuring a blend of comfort and authenticity. Modern touches include Dakota Digital Gauges, an upgraded air-conditioning system, cruise control, and electric motors, making the Suburban both a nostalgic and practical daily driver.
Accolades and Recognition
The “Original Plus” concept proved popular, earning the Suburban the Best Suburban award at the C10 Nationals at Texas Motor Speedway. Initially intended for use at a duck camp, the build evolved into a show-quality piece, demonstrating the expertise and vision of Nobody Customs & Restorations.
The 1989 Chevrolet Suburban by Nobody Customs & Restorations exemplifies the “Original Plus” philosophy, blending timeless aesthetics with modern performance. With its LS3 powerplant and thoughtful design updates, this Suburban is a testament to the skill and creativity of the team at Nobody Customs, making it a standout at any event and a cherished vehicle for its owner.
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
This Article use tools from Chatgpt
