Behind the Build:
A Behind-The-Scenes Look from Brenton’s Automotive Studios
Building a One-of-a-Kind C10
In the world of custom trucks, the 1967–72 Chevy C10 is a legend. We see them lifted, lowered, and restored at every car show across the country. But DIY builder Mike McEntee’s approach to a classic C10 project is all about creating something that hasn’t been seen before.
He’s currently building a custom 1967 C10 truck with a widebody design, focusing on a race-themed truck that can be driven on the street.
“I wanted to start from scratch,” says Mike. “I wanted to build an old car, but with all new parts.” Mike’s hope is to combine the old-school look of a classic truck with the experience of driving a brand-new vehicle, benefiting from a wider stance and state-of-the-art, aftermarket parts.
The catch? When Mike went to order the fenders and bedsides needed to achieve that aggressive, widebody design, he discovered that nobody made them. The project could have ended there; but for Mike, it was the start of a crash course in custom fabrication.
(Opposite: Mike researched online, on TV, and on social media to find inspiration for his concept.)
The Fabrication: Learning by Doing
Despite having no prior high-level metalwork experience, Mike wasn’t deterred. Instead, he drew inspiration from how-to content like Two Guys Garage to get started.
“I formulated a plan in my head based upon what you see on the internet and what you see on television shows like this,” says Mike. He ordered a single bedside and fender, set them at ride height on an axle cart, and began to cut.
Mike fabricated widebody fenders that are six inches wider on each side, completely reshaping the wheel well openings in the process to reveal (rather than cover) the tire while maintaining a low profile.
“It was a lot of trial and error,” says Mike, “and I had to buy some extra tools that I didn’t have.” Mike even created a custom measurement jig to replicate his hand-formed metalwork to ensure the fenders were identical on each side.
The Ultimate Blank Canvas
For automotive aftermarket brands, Mike’s C10 represents a rare opportunity. Rather than a restoration of an old truck, this is a 100% new build featuring reproduction sheet metal and a custom-widened front and rear chassis.
As the project moves toward the Two Guys Garage shop this season, several options remain for the powertrain and finishing touches:
- Drivetrain: A manual transmission is a must. Options currently on the table include a sequential transmission or a Tremec 6-speed.
- Powertrain: Mike is looking for a high-performance setup that fits the race theme. “Nitrous bottles in the back would look cool,” he adds.
- Footwork: The widened chassis requires custom wheels with specific offsets to fill those massive six-inch flares
For a deeper dive what parts, tools, and equipment are needed to continue this project on an upcoming episode of Two Guys Garage, click here!
The Heart of the Build: Passing the Torch
Beyond the metal and the horsepower, this C10 is fueled by a lifelong passion. Mike grew up in the car business, learning the ropes from his father, who (now at 86 years old) still stops by the shop to see what Mike’s working on next.
“Obviously my dad and I are close, so when I’m building something or doing something, he likes to come around and check it out,” Mike says.
Mike hopes that when this project is featured on Two Guys Garage, it will inspire others to be ambitious with their builds and find connections with fellow enthusiasts who can help them see their project through.
“Part of the car enthusiasm that we all share is beyond just the car,” says Mike. “It’s the memories, it’s the experience. I think when people have a car that means something to them, it’s about the memories surrounding it.”
Join the Build on Two Guys Garage
We’re finalizing the sponsor lineup now for the next stage of Mike’s C10 build, which will be showcased in an upcoming Two Guys Garage episode. From the powertrain to the performance electronics, this truck is ready to be outfitted with the best the aftermarket has to offer.
Interested in being part of the C10’s legacy?
Click here to see more details about the build and how to put your brand at the center of the action.
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