Ben Salazar and Smithy Customs Score the First Roadster Shop 4X4 Of The Year Finalist with a Lifted 1971 GMC K10
Ben Salazar’s 1971 GMC K10 pickup began life 55 years ago in central California, most likely used primarily for recreational outings rather than as a work truck. In addition to a collection of National Park stickers on the rear window, the four-wheel-drive pickup showed evidence of a camper shell installation, indicating that it spent some time in the woods and backcountry.
At its new home in Texas, the truck appeared well maintained and in good running condition before it was delivered to Smithy Customs in Houston for transformation into a vintage custom that combines modern power and comfort with its classic appearance.
A new Roadster Shop RS4 chassis began the transformation and incorporates a high-travel front suspension, AGR steeing box, and a Dana 44 front axle. The Dana 60 rear unit is fitted with Roadster Shop Fast Link four-bars and Fox 1.5 factory series coil-overs with 10-inch strokes. RS4 Baer Pro+ 13-inch, six-piston brakes are surrounded by 20-inch American Force Guardian wheels wrapped in 35-inch Toyo Open Country tires.
Renewed power for the truck comes from a 376c.i. LS3 V8 that produces 680 horsepower thanks in part to a Magnuson TVS2300 supercharger that sits between Blueprint Engines heads that are covered by Holley valve covers. Ultimate headers feed a custom exhaust system from Magnaflow. A custom radiator from Wizard Cooling and a Concept 1 Victory accessory drive system handle those respective chores. A Bowler 4L80E transmission is controlled by an Atlas Twin Stick shifter system.
Custom sheet metal work on the pickup included deleting trim pieces, side market lights, and vent windows, plus flush fitting the front and rear window glass. The firewall and cab floor were modified to accommodate modern driveline components, and the gas filler was relocated. Custom mix PPG base and clear coat was applied by the Smithy team. Automatic folding side steps make it easy to enter the taller cab.
Mobile Toys in College Station was called on to craft the interior using Moore & Giles Terra Cotta leather throughout, including on the seats from a 2020 GMC pickup and the custom console. The cabin was 3D modeled, allowing the custom components to be CNC-milled before being wrapped in leather. Dakota Digital RTX gauges reside in a custom dash that also includes a video monitor centered above the console. A Billet Specialties steering wheel sits on a tilt column while a Restomod A/C system keeps the cab comfortable and a JL Audio and Sony sound system provides the tunes.
The Smithy teams says the truck was made to be driven, which is what Ben says plans to do with this newly revitalized ride, which holds the honor of being the first-ever Roadster Shop 4X4 Of the Year Finalist.
Congratulations to Ben Salazar and Smithy Customs for being named a Finalist for the Goodguys 2026 Roadster Shop 4×4 of the Year with his lifted 1971 GMC K10!
Photos: Austin Bengston
