Steve’s ’56 Pickup · Build Journal

1956 Chevrolet Pickup

An LT5-powered Chevy pickup with hand-built details throughout. Steve’s truck combines carefully fitted metalwork, a custom exhaust, and a polished engine presentation.

Bodywork & detailing

Steve’s 1956 Chevrolet pickup has been a steady presence in Chris’s shop updates. The team worked through metal modifications and even checked the owner’s seating and steering-wheel position during fabrication. The aim was to get the truck’s fit right before moving into its finish work.

The LT5 engine was converted to a wet-sump oiling system. After several weeks of wiring, it first ran in March 2026 so the owner could hear the engine and approve the exhaust sound. Chris built the exhaust section by section, checking the fit and fully welding each section before moving farther back.

The engine’s appearance received the same attention. The factory lettering was milled from the blower cover before polishing, and a matching front cover moved from design to a 3D-printed trial piece to polished billet. The recent updates show polyester-primer blocking and sharper body lines as the truck moves through bodywork and drivetrain detailing.

Build the fit

Metalwork and cabin fit checks set the foundation for the finished truck.

Wire & fire

The LT5 was wired and started, giving the owner a first listen to the exhaust.

Shape & finish

The body moved into primer and block sanding while the drivetrain received its finishing details.