The 1965 Chevrolet C10 Slayer features a build that pushes the boundaries of custom automotive design. This six-wheeled 1965 Chevrolet C10 is a creation of Brad and Doug DeBerti. They are renowned custom builders from Mooresville, North Carolina. The C10 Slayer represents their latest one-off project. It blends raw power with unique styling elements.
A Vision of Custom Innovation
Brad DeBerti explains their desire to build a truck unlike anything else. His father, Doug, shares this sentiment, expressing their enjoyment in creating extraordinary vehicles. This philosophy drives DeBerti Designs, whose creations often gain massive social media followings and have even appeared in video games. The C10 Slayer debuted at the SEMA Show, with a large crowd witnessing its unveiling at the HP Tuners booth.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetic
“Whether people love it or hate it, everyone’s talking about it,” says Brad DeBerti. He finds this project particularly enjoyable. “This one’s fun because it’s just pure American muscle.” It incorporates new-generation style elements. These include a wide body and aggressive aero. The C10 Slayer’s highlights are its wide body and a massive wing. These elements contribute to its distinctive appearance.
Powerful Engine Specifications
Under the hood lies a Chevrolet Performance LSX376-B15 crate engine. This engine is topped with a Whipple supercharger. The engine boasts an LSX cast-iron block. It features an all-forged rotating assembly. This assembly supports up to 15 pounds of boost. High-flow, LSX-LS3 six-bolt rectangular-port heads are also included. Chevrolet Performance rates the engine at 473 horsepower. It also produces 444 lb-ft of torque. However, power adders can significantly increase this output.
Advantages of a Crate Engine
DeBerti prefers crate engines for several reasons. “The most important reason is that with the LSX-B15, literally right out of the box you can make over a thousand horsepower really easy,” he states. Another benefit is cost-effectiveness. “You’re not going to go spend 40, 50, 60 thousand dollars doing it.” He emphasizes the ease of installation. “You can just get a factory LS motor, right from Chevrolet Performance, you bolt it in, and right out of the gate you can be at a thousand horsepower in like one day.”
Reliability for Competition
Brad DeBerti has a background in various racing disciplines. He has competed in the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series. He has also participated in NASCAR Late Models and rallycross. This experience taught him the importance of reliability. “With the LS, I know the testing that they go through,” he explains. He values consistency. “That’s the other biggest thing, is when this truck goes on tour with HP Tuners we have to make sure that we’re not having to bring spare engines and things.” The truck will endure rigorous use. Its inherent reliability is a key factor.
The Build Process and Evolution
The DeBertis initially bought the truck in South Carolina. They were told it was rust-free. This proved inaccurate. Their initial plan was to simply replace the chassis. They envisioned a rat rod. However, the project quickly evolved. “We just wanted to have a fun, quick project,” Brad DeBerti recalls. He adds, “But that’s just not the way we build.” Consequently, they restarted the build. Nine months later, the C10 Slayer took its current form.
Unique Six-Wheel Drivetrain
The most striking feature of the C10 Slayer is its second axle. The DeBertis built the truck using two nine-inch rear ends. Everything is forward-driven and functional. This means the second axle is not merely trailing. The Michelin rear tires are 14 inches wide. They can produce substantial smoke during burnouts. DeBerti aimed for maximum durability from the engine back. This includes a 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. A QA1 full carbon-fiber driveshaft feeds the first axle. A second driveshaft routes power to the second axle.
Custom Fabrication and Chassis
Brad and Doug, whom Brad often calls “Pops,” performed most of the work. They handled extensive body and mechanical tasks in their shop. They painstakingly utilized various custom parts. This maintained the original C10’s distinctive body lines. They also achieved a unique wide stance. They collaborated with Scott’s Hotrods. Together, they designed the custom chassis for the dual-axle truck.
Clean Design and Functional Interior
All wiring is meticulously hidden. Various cooling components are also concealed. This contributes to the truck’s extremely clean look. The firewall is completely blank. The C10 Slayer has a mean stance. It incorporates ideas from both Brad and Doug DeBerti. The truck features a matte black exterior. Red trim provides a vibrant contrast. An open bed highlights the intricate build. It includes a tailgate to honor the original C10’s look.
Adjustable Ride and Race Features
The truck utilizes hydraulics. This allows for adjustable ride height. Adjustable suspension settings enable racing. The functional interior maintains a race car theme. It features a full roll cage. There is no carpeting in the interior. These elements emphasize its performance orientation.
Father-Son Collaboration and Vision
Brad DeBerti believes building the truck with his father was ideal. It created a perfect mix of ideas from two generations. Doug contributed ideas for raw power. His focus was on the LSX engine and blower. Brad’s input included styling elements. These were the wide body and six wheels. The father-son team previously operated in California. They recently relocated to Mooresville, North Carolina. There, they reopened the family business. They specialize in selling aluminum race parts.
Media Presence and Brand Affinity
The DeBertis have a significant social media presence. They have also appeared on television shows. These include “TwinTurbos” on Discovery. “Spoolin’ Up with the DeBertis” is on MotorTrend. “We’ve always been about Chevy Performance,” states Brad DeBerti. Throughout their careers, they have worked with various OEMs. They have built vehicles from different makes and models. However, they hold a special affinity for Chevrolet.
“My dad did quite a few (Chevrolets) back in the day,” says Brad. “We like working with all the OEs but we’ve always been about Chevy Performance. We do love, love Chevy.” He praises Chevrolet’s reliability. “I’ve had many race trucks that have had factory LS motors and they’re probably one of my favorite power plants because of the reliability.” The C10 Slayer now takes LS power to an entirely new level.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about custom and modified vehicles. Specific details may vary based on individual vehicle condition, modifications, and historical context. Always verify details independently. It is important to note that certain engine modifications are intended exclusively for competition use and may not be legal for street use in all jurisdictions.
Source: Chevrolet
Source Article Words: Dan Hodgdon
Photos: Lucas Priamo
AI Assistance: Gemini
