As trucks and SUVs
have become more popular with consumers, classic models have been embraced by
the restomod community. The latest comes from Rtech Fabrications and it’s a
1966 Chevrolet Crew Cab pickup dubbed the Ponderosa.
Built from the
ground up, the truck is based on a 1972 C30 chassis and features an immaculate
two-tone body with a matching 1966 Chevrolet grille. The truck also features
factory bumpers, power deployable running boards and a 5,443 kg Warn winch.
The retro styling
continues in the cabin as the truck has a painted dashboard, old school gauges
and green vinyl / cloth seats which mimic those used in 1966. Other highlights
include a Bluetooth-compatible RetroSound Hermosa head unit, a custom center
console and a “period-correct nav system” which is a compass.
While the body is
from Chevy, the truck has a Dodge heart as Rtech installed a 5.9-liter Cummins
diesel engine from a 1996 Ram pickup. That might sound like an odd choice, but
the mill has been completely overhauled as it features Mahle pistons, a new
camshaft, a BD Diesel manifold and an upgraded turbocharger. The engine also
boasts new injectors, a K&N intake and a Flowmaster 4-inch exhaust system.
Thanks to these and other changes, the engine produces approximately 550 hp and 1,763 Nm of torque.
The engine is
connected to a five-speed automatic transmission which sends power a heavy-duty
NP205 transfer case. The truck has also been equipped with custom driveshafts
and Dana 60 / 70 axles which have 4.10 gearing and G2 aluminum covers.
Other notable
features include a hardcore suspension with Skyjacker leaf springs, Bilstein
remote-reservoir shocks and rear traction bars that also function as lift blocks.
There’s also a 227 liter fuel tank, an upgraded steering system and
20-inch wheels that are wrapped in 37-inch Nitto Trail Grapplers tires. Thanks
to all the changes, the truck looks phenomenal. However, it’s pretty expensive
as Rtech says pricing starts at US$ 150,000.
