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When you are ten years old and imagine what a cool truck would look like, this is almost exactly what everyone comes up with.
This step-side pickup has a short wheelbase, fiery red paint, adorned with actual flame decals, and an absolutely glowing polish on all its chrome. With looks straight out of the imagination of a kid obsessed with Hot Wheels, this project is always a favourite of both the young and old whenever it pulls into a show.
Ron Begin began working on his 1967 GMC half-ton almost a quarter century ago. Originally, it was something a farmer had in his field. Once that farmer's son came into possession of it, Begin was able to start bringing to life this iconic ride.
"Kids do like it a lot, but you see that adults do too," said Begin. "My brother and I played with Hot Wheels when we were kids. It's just one of those things that I think is pretty neat."
Begin credits mutch of the truck's restored body work to Herbert Auto, who have worked with him on this project and others.
Under the Hood, more than just shiny red eye candy, this truck is loaded up with a 327 small block with a 700R4 transmission. The engine is fed by a Holly fuel injection EFI kit. He plans to upgrade the engine to a 383 stroker and install some general upgrades, such as disc brakes.
There is also chrome everywhere under the hood. From the hood springs to the radiator cradle clamps, Begin has spared no detail from a chrome coat.
For Begin, this truck is a tribute to his first real automotive love. He began driving with a 1968 Chevrolet stepside on his parents' farm. From there, he always had room in his heart for that style of truck.
"It sparked an interest in that 67-72 era of trucks, for sure," said Begin.
Right around the time he started the truck, he met his wife, Shari Begin. She quickly took an interest in not only Begin himself but also the project. She could see it was shaping up to be a favourite of hers as well.
"She's a farm girl, so she gets it," laughed Begin.
The truck serves as their main method of travel for local car shows. They take it to pretty much everything around Swift Current, so long as it's within an hour's drive.
They both enjoy the reactions the truck still brings out of people, even after 24 years.
"It's something we really like doing together," said Mrs. Begin. "Car people are good people, and it's a great way to get ideas, by talking to people at the shows. It's crazy all the different places you go and see."
The next time you see the flames wheel by, or catch a glint of the chrome steps, feel free to go over and have a chat. Both the Begins are happy to chat about the truck, and to let people take photos of it. Kids are especially encouraged to look at, but not touch, this very idyllic truck.
Under the Hood is powered by Great West Auto Electric, your local Bumper to Bumper dealer in Swift Current. Long live your car.