The 1978 & 1979 Dodge "Lil Red Express" trucks were a big hit in their time, and still have a loyal following; but this customer wanted something different, something that a tall person could fit in comfortably, carry more than 2 passengers, and still look good.  So, the idea was hatched to build a model that Dodge never did - the "Big Red Express" - basically the same truck, but using a Club Cab model instead of the single cab. 

Starting with a good running Club Cab model, and a short narrow bedside, the truck was torn apart, the frame shortened, floor rust repaired and sent off to paint...

Back from paint and really red.  Now for reassembly, attempting to make it look as factory as possible (except for the custom door decals)...

Bed wood prepped and installed...

Engine bay rebuilt with factory parts and a few blended custom touches.  Stock 360 small block and 727 trans were rebuilt and reused.  

Finished up and on the road - with lots of people telling us they used to have one too - NOT!  This is the only Big Red Express known - because we made it!!!  Pretty cool.  The interior is a mix of old and new - using Chevy full-size Blazer seats and console for a better fit for the owner, and NOS dash and door panels.  Dash gauges include the rare factory tach, and an engine vacuum gauge.