The tale of this insane pickup started when Dave Gonzales, a hot rod enthusiast from Murrieta, California, first encountered the legendary work of Roger Burman and Bobby Hofbauer of Lakeside Rods and Rides through a stunning 1935 Ford three-window coupe he acquired. This incredible custom creation, crafted by the skilled hands of the Lakeside team, captured Dave’s imagination, and sparked his interest in the shop’s unique approach to automotive artistry. Impressed by the quality and craftsmanship of the Ford coupe, Dave sought out Burman to discuss the build of a 1966 Chevy C10.
Initially intended as a simple restoration, Dave’s vision for the truck quickly evolved into a full-blown customization project. With Lakeside’s expertise and guidance, they embarked on a journey to transform the C10 into a truly extraordinary vehicle. Little did Dave know that this chance encounter would lead to a fruitful partnership. Together, they pushed the boundaries of automotive design and created a masterpiece that would solidify Lakeside Rods and Rides’ reputation as one of the premier custom automotive shops in the country.
At the core of this project is a brand-new SPEC chassis from Roadster Shop. The cutting-edge frame was outfitted with top-tier air-ride components, including a fully built IFS system, four-link rear suspension, and Ridetech airbags to adjust the height with ease, all while ensuring a smooth ride. To bring the C10 to a controlled stop, Baer brakes were added. But the team wasn’t just focused on stopping power; they wanted to make sure the truck could accelerate with authority as well. A staggered set of 20×8.5 and 22×12 Billet Specialties Geometric wheels wrapped in high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport S tires provided both aggressive style and superior handling.
To maximize performance and simplify the installation, Burman opted for GM’s Connect and Cruise system. This seamless package paired a potent 2021 LS3 6.2L engine with a reliable 4L60-E transmission, ensuring optimal compatibility and ease of installation. To further enhance the engine’s performance, the team added a PRC aluminum radiator, Billet Specialties’ Tru Trac serpentine system and valve covers, Ultimate Headers, and a custom exhaust system topped with Flowmaster 40-Series mufflers. The transmission was also paired with a C5 Corvette shifter promising an exhilarating driving experience. While the upgraded components significantly boosted the engine’s power, the true artistry lay in the custom metalwork performed by the Lakeside team within the engine bay.
The C10’s exterior underwent a meticulous transformation, sculpted and refined to achieve a sleek and understated appearance. Burman, Hofbauer, and Jamie Ziegler meticulously trimmed and tucked the bumpers that were later nickel plated, smoothed and removed the vertical driprails, made a center-opening hood, streamlined the cowl, added flush-fit glass, and relocated the gas filler behind a taillight. These subtle yet impactful modifications transformed the truck’s profile, giving it a clean, modern look.
When it came time to choose a color, Dave had initially envisioned a gold hue. However, a chance encounter with a 2019 Ford Ranger painted in “Saber” sparked inspiration. The striking orange-gold tone perfectly complemented the C10’s design, and Dave knew he had found the ideal color for his custom truck. The Saber paint, applied with precision by the Lakeside team, added a touch of luxury and sophistication to the truck’s overall aesthetic.
To continue the luxury theme into the interior space, they commissioned Weber Custom Interiors in Alexandria, Minnesota. The team meticulously reupholstered a set of small GM SUV seats in a combination of brown and black Alcantara, accented with striking red stitching. Custom-crafted door panels, upholstered in matching materials, were also installed to complement the seats. A repurposed center console from a 2016 Chevy truck was seamlessly integrated into the C10’s cabin, providing a modern touch. The steel dashboard was enhanced with an upper pad and outfitted with Dakota Digital gauges and a Pioneer 10-inch touch-screen receiver. A custom-wrapped Billet Specialties steering wheel offered precise control, while a Vintage Air climate-control system ensured comfortable cruising in any weather.
During the lengthy process of building this truck, Burman asked Dave what he wanted to name the truck. He wanted to create some sort of theme but had no clue what to call it. After some time passed, Burman called and said he came up with the name “Fenced In” since Dave has owned and operated a fence company in California for the past 48 years. To tie the truck’s name into its styling, Burman then made sure to add chain link patterns to complement the tailgate, engine compartment, and the interior. The finished truck has wildly surpassed Dave’s expectations, and seeing it win Truck of the Year honors at C10 Nationals in Fort Worth, Texas, and being a Truck of the Year finalist at the Columbus, Ohio, Goodguys event was the perfect way to celebrate a great working relationship with the team at Lakeside.
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