Chevy C10 Monster Truck: Custom Crew-Cab Dually Stands 8 Feet Tall

An outrageously customized 1966 Chevy C10 crew cab dubbed "The Ponderosa" will cross the auction block at Mecum Monterey on August 18, 2023. Built by Rtech Fabrications, this towering diesel truck fuses a vintage C10 body with modern four-wheel-drive capability and could earn a final price rivaling top-tier sports cars.

This in-depth preview will dive into what makes this C10 monster truck so special. We'll cover the extensive modifications, performance specs, interior details, and expert craftsmanship that could see it hammer for over $200,000 when auctioned.

One-of-a-Kind C10 Monster Truck Build

Constructed using parts from multiple trucks by Idaho-based Rtech Fabrications, key elements of The Ponderosa include:

• 1966 C10 body placed onto a flatbed truck chassis
• Crew cab configuration using 1964-1966 Chevy/GMC parts
• 500 hp Cummins 5.9L diesel with 4-inch exhaust
• 4-wheel-drive converted from 5-speed manual
• Custom interior with green accents
• Towering 8-foot height

The meticulous build fuses a classic C10 look with a modern drivetrain and off-road upgrades usually found on heavy duty pickups.

Interior: Vintage Style Meets Modern Tech

Inside, Rtech Fabrications focused on blending period-correct style with modern amenities:

• Analog gauges in chrome C10 dash
• Digital display integrated into speedo
• Green carpet and upholstery matched to exterior
• Custom center console between bucket seats
• Wood loading floor in rear cab area
• Power windows and locks
• Vintage steering column with tilt wheel

The extensively customized interior provides a comfortable, high-tech space suited for long hauls.

Powertrain: 500 HP 12-Valve Cummins Diesel

Motivation comes from a legendary 5.9L 12-valve Cummins diesel upgraded to produce 500 horsepower and an immense 1,300 lb-ft of torque:

• Originally an NV4500 5-speed manual, now automatic
• Dynomite Diesel injectors, intake, and turbocharger
• BD Diesel intercooler and intake manifold
• Deep rumbling notes from 4-inch Flowmaster exhaust
• Strong low-end torque to move the heavyweight truck

The powerful Cummins provides plenty of towing muscle and gives The Ponderosa head-turning diesel sounds.

Drivetrain and Suspension Upgrades

To handle the Cummins' output, Rtech installed rugged off-road upgrades:

• NP205 transfer case for 4WD capability
• Front Dana 60 axle
• Rear Dana 70 axle with Detroit Locker diff
• 4.10 gears maximize torque multiplication
• Bilstein 5165 shocks provide cushioned ride
• Skyjacker leaf springs offer flex and articulation

Robust components like the Dana axles and 4.10 gears give The Ponderosa towing chops well over 10,000 pounds.

Exterior: Iconic C10 Profile at New Heights

The exterior mixes retro C10 styling with a towering, big rig-inspired stance:

• 1966 chrome grille and front bumper
• Quad headlights and turn signals
• Massive 37-inch Nitto Trail Grapplers
• Stock step rear bumper with integrated step
• Custom green paint matched inside
• 8-foot height necessitates powered steps

The vintage body placed on a modern chassis creates a towering, head-turning profile unlike any other C10.

Off-Road and Towing Upgrades

While a showpiece, The Ponderosa retains serious utility for off-roading and towing:

• 12,000 lb Warn winch behind front bumper
• LED off-road lights mounted on roof
• Rear hitch receiver rated for 15,000 pounds
• 5th wheel hitch mounted in truck bed
• Custom 60-gallon fuel tank for range
• Front disc brakes and slotted rotors for stopping power

From the mighty winch to hitch setups, The Ponderosa can still flex its pickup roots when needed.

One-of-a-Kind Creation by Rtech Fabrications

This C10 was constructed from the ground up by Rtech Fabrications of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Additional custom touches include:

• Lengthened frame to accommodate Crew Cab
• Windshield, windows, and glass by Grizzly Glass
• Modern electronics and Speedway Motors wiring
• Spokane Metal Finishing plating and coatings
• Nitto tires tagged with "Ponderosa"
• Approval from C10 guru Dino Battilana

Rtech's extreme attention to detail resulted in a C10 unlike any other.

Auction Estimate: Could Fetch Six Figures

When it crosses the block on August 18 at Mecum Monterey, The Ponderosa's price could soar into exotic car territory:

• Total build cost exceeded $200,000
• Recent diesel truck builds have sold for $250,000+
• One-of-a-kind execution and detailing
• Vintage C10 appeal among collectors
• Just 4,400 miles since completion

Given the jaw-dropping presence and pristine condition, a final hammer price above $200,000 is achievable.

The Takeaway

This radically customized 1966 Chevy C10 combines show-stopping looks with heavy dutycapability. The Ponderosa is a testament to the creativity and expertise of Rtech Fabrications. With its flawless build quality and sheer wow factor, this C10 monster truck could very well land among the top sales at the elite Mecum Monterey 2023 auction.

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