Chevy American Chrome Shines Bright at Carlisle Truck Nationals
Chevy rides ruled the weekend. From old to new, lifted to slammed, shiny to patina’d, there was something to thrill every trucking fan.
This year’s Carlisle Truck Nationals was a three day extravaganza of cool displays, automotive exhibitions, live music and, of course, trucks. So many beautiful trucks! A vast and diverse group of Chevy and GMC trucks showed up and showed off at the 2019 Carlisle Truck Nationals presented by A&A Auto Stores in Carlisle, PA.
There were huge scores of trucks, about 1,700 in all. And the crowds showed up in impressive records to take in the show. In fact this year’s attendance was the highest since 2003, and ranks in the top 5 all-time turnouts for the event. But let’s get to the trucks and vans that had jaws dropping.
There’s No Trucks Like Show Trucks
This 1967 Chevrolet has been heavily modified. It was chopped, widened by 2-inches, bed shortened by 2-feet. Standout features include a 454 stroked to 486, a 1970 Cuda hood, and custom paint job.
We couldn’t help but love this Star Wars themed 1991 Chevy Silverado 1500, replete with a stormtrooper teddy bear.
The past came alive down to every last detail in this 1950 Chevy 3100, remarkably preserved and restored.
A lot of attention was rightfully given to this custom 1989 Chevy S10 Blazer, modded out with modern features that don’t take away from its original generation.
The LED lighting really makes the grille pop, and the modern take on two tone was a sharp touch.
Turned into a truck honoring fallen soldiers, this 1967 Chevy 3200 was a powerful expression of patriotism.
One thrill at any car or truck show is seeing more rare models. One that impressed was this sleek black GMC Syclone.
As well as this clean teal GMC Sonoma GT.
It just doesn’t get better than this custom two tone Chevy S10. Perfection!
VanaRama
A major highlight of the Carlisle Truck Nationals is Vanarama, a showcase for wild and fun vans. In its eighth year, Vanarama is becoming a very popular draw. And we have no doubt why after checking out these groovy rides.
On the outside, this might appear to be a nicely preserved blue and gray van, but inside? It is a tiki, beachy paradise.
We’re all mad here, for the Alice in Wonderland GMC van.
There’s no place like home, and there’s no van quite like this custom The Wizard of Oz Chevy, appropriately named “The Tin Van.”
We love this untamed theme, Christmas lights and all.
Best of the Rest
Among the grounds, there was plenty to see and experience. There were monster truck shows and rides, while the Showfield filled in with trucks of all shapes, sizes, styles and eras.
Some vintage rides, like this GMC rat rod, couldn’t help but steal the show.
This patina’d working truck was a crowd favorite, and still rides like a dream.
It was impossible to miss this cool yellow S10 Xtreme, and the flames played perfectly along the shape of the truck.
Minty fresh, a GMC Typhoon also gave some perfect throwback charm and style.
Of course, new trucks were everywhere, lifted, modded, and stock. Riding high, this Silverado 2500 Heavy Duty meant business.
As did this badass Silverado 1500.
The show included competitions like drop and drag, burnouts, beauty, high truck, a low truck limbo, and Carlisle Elite. The automotive flea market helped many find that hard-to-find part. Many vendors were on hand along the midway including A&A, Ranch Hand Bumpers, American Force Wheels, Skyjacker, Amsoil, Eastwood Company, 4 Wheel Parts, Extang and more. A&A hosted on-site installs, offering guests a chance to have truck work done, all while enjoying the show.
Check out the gallery for more pictures, and go to Carlisle to check out all upcoming events.
Photos: Carlisle Events
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