Can an automotive writer and photographer build something of his own? That’s the question Dave Thomas set out to answer when he picked up this 1951 GMC, originally a farm truck with a dump bed. What started as Project Why Wait has evolved over nearly a decade into the SIE (Stance Is Everything) GMC, a true reflection of vision, dedication, and countless hours in the garage.
Sitting on a hand-built custom chassis, this GMC features independent front suspension, a triangulated four-link, disc brakes, and Air Lift Performance air ride for the perfect stance. Under the hood, a 4.8L LS V8, built by IssyFab Speed, breathes life into the truck, backed by a 4L60E transmission and a posi 9-bolt rear end with 3.73 gearing.
Bringing this truck back to life required extensive metalwork, including new cab corners, floorboards, bed sides, and firewall fillers. Inside, a heated original bench seat was retrimmed by Atkinson Interiors, while a Classic Instruments gauge cluster and 50s Impala steering wheel complete the vintage-meets-modern feel.
From concept to reality, this project wouldn’t have been possible without the support of friends, family, and the car community. Special thanks to the McJannett family, Jeff Wybrow, Mike Catell, Blair Taylor, John Weatherbie, JP Ellis, Chris Johnston, Brandon Phippen, Will Northrup, Fred Bottcher, Stoney Smith and Luis Palanas for their help along the way. A huge thank you to Ash and Lyndsey for their patience in watching this truck take shape—and to everyone who followed the build through Stance Is Everything!
Key Mods:
✔ Custom-built chassis by Jeff Wybrow & Dave Newberry
✔ AirLift 3H air ride with twin 2.5-gallon tanks
✔ 4.8L LS V8 with BTR cam, 799 heads, and Holley coil pack covers
✔ Custom true dual exhaust with Borla Pro XS mufflers
✔ Classic Instruments gauges and Ididit steering column
✔ 15” Astro Supreme wheels for the perfect stance
See more of Dave’s journey at Stance Is Everything
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