Tre 5 Customs Takes a 1972 C10 from a Cruiser to a Custom Showstopper
Chevy C10 pickups built from 1967-72 were still part of the work-truck generation. While some creature comforts and power upgrades were available options, most of the 4.6 million C10s sold back then were destined to spend their years earning money for their owners.
Decades later, many C10s of that era have aged well and are easily upgraded for modern enjoyment, from economical enhancements for casual cruisers to unlimited potential for full-blown custom treatments. Arizona resident Larry Gloria’s 1972 model certainly fits the latter category. The truck was in running condition when he brought it to Tre 5 Customs in Peoria, Arizona, to undergo the transformation from a simple survivor to full-blown showstopper.
The C10 is anchored with air spring frame from Rev B Chassis. Baer Pro+ 16-inch disc brakes are mounted front and rear behind polished Budnik 22×8.5- and 22×12-inch wheels.
There’s plenty of updated power under the hood in the form of a Don Hardy-prepared 376c.i. LS V8 that cranks out 850 horsepower, thanks to a boost from a Whipple supercharger. Ultimate Headers guide the exhaust waste through Borla mufflers. Front-of-engine accessories are controlled by a Wegner system, while a Lokar shifter controls the 6L80 automatic transmission. Under-hood metal modifications include custom inner fenders and a smoothed firewall. The stock fender-mounted hood hinges were replaced with aftermarket pieces mounted to the firewall.
The extensive body modifications celebrate and refine the C10 design, removing clutter and adding custom touches. Exterior trim, emblems, outside mirrors and side marker lights were all deleted. The wing vents were deleted to allow for one-piece door glass. The windshield and rear glass were flush-mounted. The front bumper was smoothed and tucked closer to the body. The stock rear bumper was replaced with a custom pan that was notched to accommodate the dual exhaust tips. In the bed, a custom floor was installed, and larger rear wheel wells sit on either side of a hinged center floor that allows access to the air suspension components. Final bodywork and application of the gorgeous ruby red finish were done by the crew at IKandy Paintworks.
Elevated Design in Phoenix created the interior that features Snowden custom seats, a one-off console, Dakota Digital gauges, and a billet wheel on a chrome tilt steering column. A Restomod A/C system keeps the interior comfortable. A video screen located in the center of the console controls the sound system that includes large kick panel speakers.
We think it’s safe to say that the workhorse days are over for this C10. The only thing Larry has to worry about now is cruising in style and hauling home trophies wherever he goes.
Congratulations to Larry Gloria for scoring a Finalist position for the Goodguys 2026 Dakota Digital Truck of the Year Late with his 1972 Chevy C10 built by Tre 5 Customs!
Photos: Austin Bengston, Michael Christensen
