Custom 1982 Ford Courier - Mint Julep

A frame-layin S-10 or Toyota is a common vehicle at any truck show across the U.S. Jamie Barrett of Louisville, Kentucky, wanted to build something different-a traditional mini-truck-and something that he could learn on at the same time. He found that in the form of an '82 Ford Courier that he was able to snatch up for a couple hundred bucks.

Naturally, the first modification to the truck was to install an air system that could quickly raise and lower the truck with the flip of a switch. Jamie used 2,500-pound Firestone airbags, and with some modification to the spring perch and the lower control arm, the front end was thoroughly grounded. At the rear, a Suicidedoors Generation II bridge kit, a four-link, and another set of Firestone airbags allow the suspension to drop the rest of the frame on the pavement.

To smooth out the appearance of the truck, Jamie shaved the tailgate handle, the door handles, and the gas-filler door. Instead of having all the primer spots on his truck and looking like a rolling commercial for milk, Jamie decided to get it in one color of primer. He chose to use Hot Rod White primer, mixed with Jade Green, resulting in the eye-appealing color of teal. Breaking up the bright color, Jason Mattox laid down some pinstripe licks on the hood, and Rich Dossett designed the door sign.

Inside the cab, Jamie replaced the factory seats with those from an Acura Integra and disguised them with Mexican blankets. Until he can figure out how to stuff a stereo system into such a small cab, Jamie decided to take the simple route-a real simple route. For the head unit, he chose a JVC CD player, and to hear the music of choice, he installed 5-1/2-inch Sony speakers.

Because aftermarket parts for an '82 Ford Courier are really nonexistent, Jamie's ride is definitely one that will need a lot of custom-fabricated parts to complete, and that will take a lot of his time and money. But, it will be worth the effort for something unique.