1946 Chevy Pickup Radical Custom

In 1946, postwar automotive production ramped up, with manufacturers like Chevrolet showcasing innovations born out of wartime advancements. That May, Chevrolet resumed light-duty truck production, introducing models that looked like the ’41 versions but featured mechanical upgrades from wartime development. Notably, Chevrolet took the top sales spot that year.

This fully customized ‘46 Chevy pickup exemplifies the era’s legacy but with modern touches. A powerful Chevy Big Block 454 engine, dressed with polished components, sits under the hood, ready to burn rubber. It still runs on pump gas, with a 4-barrel carburetor feeding the beast. Custom headers by Karl feed into Flowmaster mufflers, while a Chevy Turbo 350 transmission transfers power to a Chevy 10-bolt rear end. Cooling comes from a large aluminum radiator with a mechanical fan. True to hot rod style, this truck has no A/C, and the hinged front windshield brings in the breeze when the windows are down.

The interior is an art piece, built by Karl and his son using traditional metalworking tools like an English wheel and planishing hammer. The vintage Chevy “waterfall” dash is matched with a custom metal console, while Fiero seats with seat belts ensure comfort during spirited drives. The stock dash sports Dolphin gauges that look natural against the satin black finish, and a GM tilt column fits seamlessly, as if factory-installed. The rolled metal door panels resemble upholstery—an impressive touch.

This radical custom ‘46 Chevy features a 6-inch chop, a 3-inch body channel over the frame, and a 4-inch body section out of the beltline for a low, sleek profile. Karl’s craftsmanship is on full display with the custom hand-built bed, roll pan, and subtle grille modifications (two bars removed for a unique look). Shaved door handles and ’49 Cadillac taillights complete the striking exterior, painted in satin black by Karl himself.

The stock ‘46 Chevy chassis has been boxed and reinforced for durability, equipped with a Mustang independent front suspension, front disc brakes, and rear drum brakes for a proper stance. Karl and his son handled the entire build in their home shop, from metalwork to paint.

Up next, Karl is tackling a ’67 Camaro for his wife, Helen. Both are active members of Relics & Rods of Lake Havasu City, so keep an eye out for this black beauty and a soon-to-appear Camaro on the streets of Havasu!