When you know you're going to be building a show truck, you might want to start with something that resembles a truck, generally speaking. When Michael Ballard decided to start building this B2200, he started with something that looked like it went through a giant can opener. It was basically a basket case. "I had to replace half of the cab and it needed a new bed," said Michael. This wasn't going to hold him back, though. After all, the truck ran awesome.
Luckily for Michael, his uncle owned H&B Customs, so he was able to get everything worked out, straightened out, and smoothed out. Once this was accomplished, some crazy colors were mixed together to make this amazing combination you see now. The interior was tackled by the owner and L&B Upholstery. They made some custom interior panels and painted everything else to match. The outside of the body received some custom grilles and a Toyota bumper to accent the chrome mirrors and 18-inch rims.
There is still a lot more in store for this truck, including a new custom bed floor. Michael plans to take his truck to shows all over the South and enjoy some friendly competition. He's come a long way from cruising in his '82 Mustang, which runs a quarter mile in 9.2 seconds. Now, he can cruise the Boulevard at 35 mph and throw some sparks, which is way cooler if you ask us.
OWNER: Michael Ballard
RIDE: '91 Mazda B2600
LOCATION: Franklinton, Louisiana
Rolling Attire
Wheels (Front/Rear): 18x10 Equis Torque
Tires (Front/Rear): 215/35R18 Kuhmo
Suspension type: Air bags
Shocks: Toxic
Valves: Purchased from AIM
Compressors: Engine mounted
Air line: 1/2-inch
Frame mods: Step-notched
Performed by: Owner Michael Ballard
City/state: Franklinton, Louisiana
Shaved: Roll pan, shaved door handles, gas tank door, wiper cowl, tailgate handle, taillights, and antenna
Front end: Toyota 4WD bumper and valance with billet inserts
Back end: Custom tailgate cutouts
Taillights: Custom-made Mazda cutout taillights
Exterior bolt-ons: Chrome mirrors, Le Bra Tonneau
Misc.: Flared-out bed sides
Performed by: Owner Michael Ballard
City/state: Franklinton, Louisiana
Brand and colors: Ember Orange, Buff Yellow, and Emerald Green
Style: Custom graphics
Misc.: Bodywork by the owner Michael Ballard
Performed by: H&B Customs
City/state: Franklinton, Louisiana
Material: Vinyl
Dash: Painted
Door panels: Custom made
Center console: Custom made
Flooring: Black carpet
Misc: 18-inch Moon steering wheel
Performed by: L&B Upholstery
City/state: Franklinton, Louisiana
Head unit: Panasonic
Subwoofers: Two 12-inch subs
Amplifier for subwoofers: US amps Merlin
Video: VST 7-inch TV
Misc.: Alpine mids and highs
Performed by: Owner Michael Ballard
City/state: Franklinton, Louisiana
H&B Customs, L&B Upholstery, and to my wife.