The 1988 Chevrolet R30 Silverado represents the final chapter of the legendary Square Body era for heavy-duty pickups. This specific custom build takes the formidable crew cab dually platform and reimagines it as a slammed street cruiser. Finished in a striking monochromatic blue, the truck combines massive presence with detailed craftsmanship. It retains its original big-block power while benefiting from modern transmission and suspension upgrades. Collectors will have the chance to see this blue colossus cross the block at the Glendale 2026 auction this March.
Big Block Heart and Modern Overdrive
Under the expansive hood lies the original 454 CI V-8 engine, a staple of Chevrolet heavy-duty performance. This powerplant utilized throttle body injection to provide better reliability and smoother idle characteristics than older carbureted units. Currently, the engine shows 93,000 miles, which is relatively modest for these iron-block workhorses. It is now paired with a new 700R4 automatic transmission that has only 3,000 miles of use. This overdrive unit significantly improves highway fuel economy and cruising comfort compared to the original three-speed gearboxes.
Low Stance and Semi Truck Hardware
The most dramatic aspect of this 1988 Chevrolet R30 Silverado is its ground-hugging profile. An air bag suspension system allows the driver to adjust the ride height for a perfect show-ready stance. To fill out the widened dually fenders, the builders installed massive 22-inch custom semi truck wheels. These polished units provide an industrial, high-end look that standard pickup wheels simply cannot match. A rear roll pan replaces the traditional bumper to complete the smooth, custom aesthetic at the back of the truck.
Custom Plaid Interior and Cabin Refinement
Inside the massive crew cab, the design team opted for a unique blue and plaid upholstery theme. This custom fabric gives the interior a retro-modern feel that pays homage to classic Chevy patterns. New blue carpeting was recently installed to freshen up the floor space and improve sound insulation. The monochromatic theme extends from the seats to the dashboard and door panels for a cohesive environment. This spacious cabin provides plenty of room for six passengers while maintaining a custom show-truck atmosphere.
Exterior Detail and Color Matching
The exterior of this R30 is a study in monochromatic blue design. Builders color-matched the bumpers and trim pieces to the body to create a seamless, modern look. This approach hides the aging chrome and emphasizes the iconic square body lines that enthusiasts crave. The paint finish appears deep and consistent across the massive surface area of the crew cab and dually bed. Every detail, from the mirrors to the grille, has been integrated into the overall color scheme. The result is a truck that feels like a single, solid piece of rolling art.
Engine Performance and Chassis Specs
The 454 CI V-8 provides the massive torque necessary to move this heavy-duty dually with authority. With throttle body injection, the engine maintains consistent performance across various temperatures and altitudes. The addition of the 700R4 transmission makes the power delivery more versatile for both city and highway driving. Heavy-duty chassis components remain in place to handle the extra stress of the large 22-inch wheels. These technical specifications ensure that the truck drives as impressively as its aggressive appearance suggests.
Summary of the R30 Silverado Dually
This 1988 Chevrolet R30 Silverado is a bold interpretation of a classic American workhorse. It successfully blends the utility of a crew cab dually with the creative flair of a custom street truck. The combination of air bag suspension and semi wheels creates a profile that is impossible to ignore. With its low-mileage transmission and refreshed interior, it is ready for immediate show or street use. This truck stands as a testament to the enduring popularity and versatility of the Chevy Square Body platform.
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Source: mecum.com
