1.MIC trashed the old leaf springs and hangers to get ready for the step-notch and 'bag kit. | 
2.With the bed off the frame, the arm assembly was bolted to the frame, where the old hanger brackets used to be. Using custom U-bolt brackets, the four-link bars were then mounted to the axle. | 
3.Here's a top view of the U-bolt-mounted arms with the bumpstop removed. |
4.One of the reasons for the excellent ride is the location of the airbag. The cantilever-style arms pivot with the inflation of the 'bag, creating a smoother lift. | 
5.The tailpipe section of the after-cat exhaust had to be cut off slightly to make room for the step-notch. | 
6.Using the KP Components '99-'04 Chevy step-notch kit will let the Silverado lay down like a hooker at a cheap hotel. OK, maybe not quite exactly like that, but you get our meaning. From this angle, you can see that when the 'bags are deflated, this allows the axle to come up past the frame for the ultra-low look we all crave. |
7.A once very practical and useful item-the spare tire. But, when you want to be cool, sometimes you have sacrifice practicality. MIC discarded the spare tire and carrier to make way for the two 5-gallon air tanks and four Viair 450 compressors. | 
8.With the floor of the bed cut out, you can see how the entire axle and step-notched frame fit perfectly. You can also see the 13-inch MIC wheeltubs that will allow us to tuck 22-inch wheels at the flick of a switch. This setup also allows for 10 to 12 inches of suspension travel, which came in handy for our flooded street excursion. | 
9.MIC's custom bed floor kit was carefully marked for the grooves in the bed for a flush fit. Each notch was hand-cut to ensure a tight fit and will be easier to weld. After everything was test-fitted and in place, it was then welded solid for a secure fit. A good dose of silicone sealant will do the trick to prevent moisture or rust from forming. |
10.Here, you can see that our project truck is indeed driven daily. After several road trips, including one through flood water, the KP system got a little wear and tear but performed flawlessly, as did the four Viair 450 compressors and all of the air lines. This setup took on Mother Nature and won. Other than a little rust on the bolts, the entire system worked great. | 
11.Here's the finished product, after a quick stop at Inland Empire Arma Coatings in Corona, California. Travis sprayed the protective Arma Coating to not only seal and protect the bed but to also give it a clean usable look. Granted, we probably won't be hauling rocks or dirt with our project truck. But, if we had to, we could. Our Project Silverado lays down and looks cool. The front fenderwells were left intact because of time constraints, and we wanted to drive it daily on the freeways. And if you have ever driven on California freeways, you know that your tires can pick up the most unusual crap that could damage your sport truck. | |