Mark Barbee – 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid ( 10.23.2009 )
Mark Barbee’s reputation has definitely planted him among some of the top custom truck builders in the country. When he’s not busy saving lives he’s keeping himself busy building custom trucks either for pleasure or for contracted companies, some prestigious as OEM manufacter. He’s been hired by Truckin Magazine to build a 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, which will be featured in the highly sought after GM booth for SEMA 2009.
The hit list is pretty straight forward for the build, as is the budget. With an allocated target of $6000.00 Mark looks to outfit the vehicle with a Belltech lowering kit, custom painted aftermarket wheels and custom badges. There’s still a bit more, you’ll find outlined below. Some may ask why such a simplistic build? Mark’s comments are just a straight forward as the build – purely to drive it and why not since it’s a gas saving Hybrid, which will provide many pleasurable miles at a lower cost.Â
Owner: Mark Barbee, 31
Vehicle:Â 2007 GMC Yukon
Occupation:Â Firefighter, Paramedic / Custom Car Builder
Purpose / Goal of build? This is a build for Truckin Magazine
When did you start this project/How long did it take to build? Started Sept 2009 Finished Nov 2009
What KW automotive products are you using? Belltech drop kit and sway bars
Why did you choose them? Belltech is a top notch brand that is known for quality
What do you like about them? Very easy to install and almost self explanatory.
Cost to build? $6000
Estimated value? $35000Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Trophies/honors/awards? Built for Truckin Magazine
What are the most unique features about your vehicle? Lowered stance, painted wheels, custom badges
Future of vehicle? Drive it!
Body Kit: Street Scene Equipment wiper cowl and running boards
Additional Body Parts: Custom Bodywork color matched exterior stock pieces
Vehicle Engine:Â stock 2007 engine GMCÂ 5.3 V8
ECU/Fuel Management: Bully Dog
Other Engine Modifications: Airaid intake and throttle body spacer
Transmission: stock automatic 2007
Suspension: Belltech Street Performance shocks with Belltech lowering springs
Lowering: 4 inch front, 4 inch back
Antiroll/Stabilizer Bar: Belltech Anti-sway bars
Wheels: Akuza 701 22inch +35mm
Tires:Toyo Proxes 305/50/22
Brakes: SSBC
Interior Work Modifications: Suede headliner, roadwire leather, phoenix imaging plastic pieces, added factory navigation
Vehicle In-Car Electronics: Stereo & additional Electronic Components: added factory navigation, all stereo upgraded to Memphis Car Audio with hidden amps and subwoofer.
