Thunder: a 2003 Tahoe build

[outcast99]

I bought a bagged S10 and needed a tow pig since the AC and heater is coming out to fit (hopefully) 22s. I looked at diesels, gas trucks, heavy cars… nothing interested me. Well the decision was made for me when my Dad got into an accident that should of killed him, but his NBS Suburban saved him. That told me I’m getting a Tahoe out similar.

 

[outcast99]

i searched and found this CLEAN 2003 LT and went and scooped it up for 3500. Everything works except AC, driver rear window needs a regulator, and it has a couple paint flaws. Near perfect seats, carpet, panels and only 178k on it. 5.3, good history on oil changes and repairs, couldn’t pass it up

I ended up driving my S10 there, bought it, then trailered it back with no issues. The paint felt like sand papers, emblems and moldings had a green moss growing, and it needed a little more work than I expected.

The next day, (day 2) I drove back to Albany to drop off the trailer and scooped these 24” Dub 8Balls with new tires (dated 4020) for $800

 

[outcast99]

Day 3 was busy. Full buff, debadge, remove the moldings, got new lugnuts and wheels on, she looked great. Got some taillights from @Thatsquishykid717 for a good deal too

After, I took the last couple pics I ordered a 4/4 drop kit with keys and springs, shock relocators.

 

[George B]

Lookin good

 

[outcast99]

8 days later, yesterday, everything started showing up and I got the rear dropped. Did the free travel mod, rear springs in, and turned stock keys down for now until I get more time to do the front kit, although it looks great as is. I’ll keep this updated on next moves

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Looks Great!

 

[outcast99]

Oh, unpictured, I scooped up some Skar EVL12 subs in a prefab box, with an RP2000.1D amp, all new for $600. Upgraded the deck to an Alpine iLx-107 also. Haven’t hooked the subs up yet as im waiting for some 1/0 wiring

 

[Tonyrodz]

Coming out great! In for the mods.

 

[cooki3mnster]

Looking good!

 

[Tonyrodz]

Any updates?

 

[outcast99]

Haven’t taken any new pics lately, I will today. Was pulling up to a stoplight a month or so ago and the trans sounded like it fell out. A loud clunk then on acceleration a squealing, grinding sound. It sat long enough to get my next check then I dropped the 2500 for a new transmission.

 

[outcast99]

After that I installed my Mechman alternator, all my wiring for the big 3, fuse block. I already want to go bigger on subs and amplifier. I’ll get installed pics today also.

 

[outcast99]

Just to update, oversize 1/0 with techflex jacket, Mechman 370 alternator (206amp at 800 rpm idle, 411amp at 1800 cruise)

 

[OR VietVet]

Looks great. I see you are in Oregon, near Albany/Corvallis?

 

[outcast99]

No I'm in Redmond actually

 

[OR VietVet]

No I'm in Redmond actually

I saw the dealership, where you bought the Tahoe, was in Albany. I know where Medford is. Must have been REAL hot there when we were 100+ here in Eugene.

 

[outcast99]

I saw the dealership, where you bought the Tahoe, was in Albany. I know where Medford is. Must have been REAL hot there when we were 100+ here in Eugene.

It was for sure! Only downfall is the A/C in the Tahoe needs a new compressor, I guess I should invest in that next haha

 

[OR VietVet]

Not just the compressor. Get the orifice(s), accumulator and flush out the system when opened up.

 

[outcast99]

For sure, it’ll have to wait though because washing it today, my girlfriend noticed the roof dripping. I pulled the roof rack off and noticed major rust issues.

Also, looks like a tree or something fell onto passenger side and someone hammered it out.

 

[outcast99]

started out trying to find the extent of the damage and started got the grinder and flap wheel out.

Knocked out a bit then went to scrapers to remove a larger amount quicker. It was 1/4” deep in some places!

Hand made some outer skin pieces also





one of the Mount holes