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Modern Supercharged Performance in a ’50s Wrapper

- Joe Greeves

When it comes time to create your dream ride, choosing your builder is usually the first critical step. Few of us have the talent or the facilities to complete an award-winning vehicle on our own and must rely on professional help. Internet reviews and word of mouth opinions can take some of the anxiety from the process but careful research is still critical to ensure success. Chassis Crafters in Daytona Beach, Florida, is one of those go-to shops where you can get your dream ride built and recommend them to friends with confidence. Ed Nash and the staff have been doing business at that location for only a half dozen years but they have already seen multiple feature articles showcasing their work.

Brad Grant is a repeat customer at Chassis Crafters. A retired corporate engineer, he is an active automotive enthusiast and has worked together with Nash in the past, having Chassis Crafters restomod his ’69 custom Camaro, a special car that was owned by his father and has been in the family for decades. Since the Camaro was a tangible example of the shop’s talents, when it came time to choose the builder for his latest vehicle, Brad had no hesitation. However, this build had an almost accidental beginning.

Nash has a source in North Georgia—a friend who is also a collector—where he buys many of his project vehicles. On a recent trip, Brad tagged along just for the ride. When Nash picked up his, Brad spotted this ’55 GMC Second Series Big Window pickup. The Second Series differs from the earlier ’55s thanks to its scalloped hood, wraparound windshield, hooded headlights, 12V system, and distinctly more-stylish lines. The connection was immediate and Brad bought it on the spot. Nash smiles when he says, “It was a good thing we had a two-place car hauler!” They drove home with both vehicles and began the design process that resulted in the unique creation you see here.