When we first met Tim Barrier, we couldn't help but notice that contained within this person was some of the fiercest competitive spirit we'd ever seen. When we saw what he'd built, a '95 Chevy S-10, we understood. This is the second S-10 Tim has worked on and the best example of his custom prowess to date. You see, the S-10 is the most popular and most often purchased mini-truck anywhere in the United States. To build them for show, you either have to have rocks for brains or be willing to swing with all you have to build a truck that can compete with the huge numbers of these trucks around the States. From the looks of things, Tim's been a busy boy, with more than 50 trophies from various shows he's attended since he began showing the truck about four years ago. Recently, Tim became a member and then a state representative for his club, SubCulture. He leads his chapter of SC by example by showing off one of the cleanest customs to be found anywhere on the East Coast. Currently, his truck is undergoing yet another makeover that should have people he shows against scratching their heads in disbelief. We can't wait to see how this old Red Dog learns some new tricks.
the lowdown
Suspension
Red Dog is lowered in the neighborhood of 11 inches from its original stock height. It now has four-wheel airbags professionally installed by Sherrill's Automotive out of Mooresville, North Carolina. The suspension setup includes Toxic shocks and Belltech lowering spindles for an all-out low.
Wheels/tires
18x7-inch Enkei Shuriken with 255/35R18 BFGoodrich Euro T/A radial tires.
Interior
Light-gray tweed reupholstered interior work performed by Tunasub in Concord, North Carolina.
Audio/visual system
Additionally, the stereo system was upgraded to include a Kenwood 9007 flip-face head unit and two Rockford Fosgate Punch series amplifiers that feed Eclipse subs, coaxial speakers, and separates housed within the cab of the truck.
Paint/body
Sherrill's Automotive also performed the custom bodywork that Tim felt must be performed to transform his truck into his version of the ultimate custom. They shaved everything, including the tailgate seams and the bed opening, to make the truck bed into a closed box. Once they were done with the extensive bodywork, they sprayed the truck using House of Kolors Viper Red.
Modifications
Body dropped 2-3/4 inches by Lenny Gruver in Warren, Ohio, Red Dog lays body all the way around. The undercarriage of the truck has been painted and powdercoated for maximum show points.
Owner's quote
"I want to send out a special thanks to my parents and my family for all of their support through it all, and a thank to Southern Star Customs and the Hack Shack in North Carolina. Additional thanks go to all my friends that continually helped me when I needed it the most. More thanks go to all my club brothers and sisters in SubCulture World Wyd -- much love! Also, be on the lookout for an all-new, completely redone Red Dog soon!"