Feature Car of the Month for December 2023

Mike Sutton and his 1998 Chevrolet Silverado

Mike Sutton and his 1998 Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Since 1988, Mike has owned and managed a small security company part time. Initially, Mike used a small pick up truck for his business that he was not satisfied with. He really needed a full-size truck to work from, and so on December 1, 1997 he purchased a brand new Silverado with an extended cab and 8ft box from Eastside Chevrolet in Markham.

Since he was planning on retiring the business in 2023, he made the decision to give the truck a “new lease on life”. Mike said the truck was reliable and comfortable and unlike the newer trucks today, his truck is easy to repair. So, about 4 years ago he started collecting parts. He bought front fenders, both doors, new box, all lights, mirrors, door handles, trim, body side moldings, and a rear bumper. The truck and all collected parts went to the body shop in August 2022. What was supposed to be a 2-to-3-week restoration job, turned into 3 months!!

Initially, Mike put a cap on the truck for work purposes. Now, to give the truck a new look and profile he removed the cap, had the bed coated with X-Line Spray Liner, and put on a Bak-Flip Hard Shell Tonneau Cover. The truck was repainted its original colour – Emerald Green. Despite it being a work truck, the interior was still in excellent condition and all it needed was a good cleaning to restore it to its former glory.

Continued next column