Historically, pickup trucks have typically been viewed as utilitarian workhorses with a rugged design and no frills. But by the late 1980s, this perception was changing. Automakers introduced more luxurious trim levels with improved interiors and creature comforts, such as the 1987 Chevy Silverado seen here. Hemmings produced a six-part "Square Body Rehab" video series in which they restored and modified this Silverado R10 — the designation for the outgoing '87 body style (formerly known as a C10) during the transition to the all-new 1988 Silverado.
Hemmings "Square Body Rehab" Project
For this project, Hemmings selected a 1987 Silverado R10, which came with GM's new throttle body fuel injection (TBI) system atop a 350ci V8 and TH-350 automatic transmission. For more information on the differences between C/K and R/V series, refer to our Chevy Truck Generations article.
TBI works fine for stock engines, but it doesn't always play nice with modifications. So, Hemmings added a Holley Sniper EFI fuel injection system with a touchscreen control module in the cab. The 350 V8 was also upgraded with headers and a custom dual side-exit exhaust.
Above: The Sniper EFI system lists vital information like RPM, air-fuel ratio, battery voltage, fan speed, and more. It learns and adapts to modifications and environmental conditions.
In order to put down the power more effectively and to increase the effective torque, Hemmings also dropped in a new Eaton Detroit TrueTrac limited-slip diff as well as higher-ratio ring and pinion gears.
Of course, the faster your truck can go, the faster it'll need to stop. So, a disc brake conversion kit was installed to bring the Silverado safely to a halt. It's not a high-end 6-piston racing setup, since the truck won't be used for that purpose, but it's a great upgrade for daily driving or hauling cargo.
The Silverado was finished off with a 4/6-inch lowering kit that gives it a muscular look and reduces body roll. Since this truck isn't a 4x4 and won't be used for off-roading, lowering it makes it a little easier to climb in and out or load/unload cargo from the bed.
A set of original-style 15-inch wheels are wrapped in Mickey Thompson Sportsman tires with classic raised white lettering on the sidewalls.
The interior was restored to its original look, with a dark blue dash pad, door panels, bench seat, carpet, and headliner. While it's still utilitarian, basic comforts like power windows and power locks make it easier to drive every day.
Hemmings did a great job with this restomod build, and this Silverado is nicely set up for cruising around town and tailgating with friends, as shown at the end of the video series. Check it out below to see this truck in action and hear more of host Dan Stoner's thoughts on it:
Looking for Chevy or GMC Truck Parts?
Classic Industries is your one-stop shop for parts for your 1947-08 Chevy or GMC pickup. We offer a huge selection of restoration and performance parts, including many of the items mentioned in this article. If you need parts for your truck build, click the button below to browse our GM truck parts inventory now:
