Phil Puleo’s 1967 Chevy C10 isn’t just a show-quality build—it’s a track performer too. At this year’s Holley LS Fest East in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Puleo’s blue LS-swapped C10 competed in the Truck & SUV class on the drag strip. Despite its racing prowess, the truck’s clean design could easily make it a showstopper at any car event.
Hailing from Plainfield, Illinois, Puleo has owned the truck for eight years. Originally, it came with a stock inline six-cylinder engine, but Puleo had bigger plans. After considering making it a street truck with air-ride suspension, the project evolved into something much more ambitious.
Under the hood now sits a 6.0L LQ9 engine from a 2003 Silverado, part of GM’s first generation of LS engines. Puleo added LS3 cylinder heads, an LS3 intake manifold, and an S480 BorgWarner turbocharger paired with a Shearer Fabrications intercooler. The setup is completed by a 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission. The result is both aesthetically clean and highly functional, with hidden wiring giving the engine bay a sleek look.
The truck’s performance modifications include a Skyview Race Cars front suspension kit, rack-and-pinion steering, a Quick Performance nine-inch rear end, and Viking Performance coilovers. It rides on Billet Specialties Win Lite wheels with Mickey Thompson Radial Pro Tires in the rear for optimal traction.
Inside, the C10 retains a classic feel with bench seats but integrates modern tech with a Holley EFI Pro Dash and a Motion Raceworks shifter. The truck also features a roll cage by Skyview Racecars, installed by Rick’s Racecraft for added safety on the track.
Though Puleo primarily enjoys test-and-tune events, his C10 has clocked impressive times, including a 9.61-second pass at 138 mph in the quarter-mile. Yet, outside the drag strip, the truck is equally at home at car shows and cruise nights, embodying the perfect blend of show and go.
Puleo’s C10 is a testament to his craftsmanship, combining the best of both racing performance and show-quality aesthetics, making it a standout wherever it goes.
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
