1968 GMC 3500 – Kevin Dykes

Kevin & his wife’s truck began its life as a 1968 GMC 3500. The truck was purchased after the local 4th of July parade had inspired them to participate as well. The bed of the truck would be the perfect place for their grandchildren to ride and hand out candy and water to the spectators on the parade route.

Kevin and his wife became the third owner of the 1968 in April of 2014. The truck had led a hard life up until then as the work truck of a plumbing contractor who used it heavily. The truck was very unattractive, but was unaltered and complete.

When Kevin first fired up the 1968’s engine, there was a massive rod knock which gave him great leverage to negotiate the deal. They agreed on terms and the truck came to its new home.

He began the full restoration in May 2015 and tore the truck down completely to the bare frame. The 1968 has been completely and thoroughly gone through with nothing left untouched. They upgraded the front suspension to include disc brakes and replaced the rear axle with a late model unit. The truck was originally a GMC, but Kevin always knew that it would receive the Chevrolet grille assembly.

Other than that, nearly all of the other original components were individually rebuilt, restored or refurbished. The truck retains its original, numbers matching engine and transmission that have both been rebuilt. Both are now running flawlessly.

The truck came to life in mid-July 2016, missing this year’s parade. The restoration was completed just days before Kevin’s birthday though. The now ’68 Chevy has been well received by all who have seen it in person and has been to a few local get-togethers at the local burger joint. Kevin says he has a few small details to finish, but beyond that, she’s all done.

“I have had nothing but enjoyment with it on a daily basis.” –Kevin Dykes