The 1950 Phantom Fleetside by Kindig-It Design is not just a custom build; it is a masterclass in automotive transformation. It began life as a utilitarian Suburban. The Kindig-It Design team then dared to reimagine it as a sleek, unibody Fleetside pickup. This conversion showcases the boundless possibilities of custom car creation. It also cemented the build’s legendary status after its feature on Season 1 of Bitchin’ Rides. The project took 12 months to complete, resulting in a show-stopping vehicle with a phantom Fleetside design.
The Suburban That Became a Pickup Legend
Kindig-It Design started with a 1950 Suburban. They undertook a complete metamorphosis to create this unique truck. This conversion to a unibody pickup body style is the most striking modification. The team meticulously crafted custom-built bed sides and running boards. They replaced the original glass with custom-fit pieces to complete the dramatic, integrated look. Removing the separation between the cab and the bed gives the vehicle its distinctive, seamless profile. This kind of extensive body work is a hallmark of Kindig-It’s precision.
Striking Visual Impact and Color Palette
The truck’s appearance is defined by its bold, two-tone paint scheme. The main color is a vibrant “Salsa Red,” a stock Audi color. It is beautifully contrasted by a more subdued “Chrysler Beige.” This combination provides a stunning, yet classic, aesthetic. The Billet Specialties “Legacy 2G” wheels add to the modern custom look. They measure $19 \times 8$ in the front and $20 \times 10$ in the rear. These are wrapped in high-performance Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
Engineering for Precision
Beneath the custom metalwork lies a thoroughly modern foundation. The build rests on an Art Morrison chassis. This chassis is known for its incredible strength and performance engineering. It features an Independent Front Suspension (IFS) for superior handling. In the rear, a 4-link system paired with a 9-inch Ford Rear End ensures excellent traction and stability. This advanced suspension setup transforms the truck’s dynamics. The performance chassis allows the truck to handle as well as it looks.
A Highly Personalized, Luxurious Cabin
The interior of the 1950 Phantom Fleetside is a testament to bespoke craftsmanship. JS Custom Interiors was responsible for the leather work. They created a luxurious cabin with custom leather inserts. These special panels feature unique designs of the owner’s dogs and nature scenes. The seats themselves were sourced from a 2001 Silverado and heavily modified for a perfect fit. The dash features one-off Dakota Digital VHX Gauges. This blend of classic design and modern, personal touches is truly remarkable.
The Powerhouse Beneath the Hood
The heart of the 1950 Phantom Fleetside is pure modern performance. It is powered by a GM Performance LS3 crate engine. The LS3 has been significantly enhanced with a Magnuson Supercharger. This potent combination is rated to deliver 430 wheel horsepower (WHP). A Tremec 6-speed Transmission backs the supercharged engine. This manual gearbox offers the driver complete control over the ample power. The setup ensures an engaging and responsive performance experience.
Phantom Fleetside’s Lasting Legacy
The 1950 Phantom Fleetside by Kindig-It Design is more than just a modified truck. It represents a total reinvention of a classic vehicle form. From its unibody conversion to its powerful drivetrain, every detail is engineered for impact. The build successfully marries vintage aesthetics with modern, high-performance capability. It is a stunning example of bespoke automotive art.
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Source: Kindig-It
