1977 Isuzu KB20 / Chevy LUV 350 V8 Swap Feature - NZ Hot Rod March 1987

This is a scanned page (page 36) from the March 1987 issue of NZ Hot Rod magazine, featuring a reader/feature article on Robin Barnes' modified Chevrolet LUV pickup truck. The truck began life as a 1977 Isuzu KB20 and was converted to Chevy LUV specification, including a genuine Chevrolet tailgate made by Isuzu Motors in Japan. The build details a 350 Chevrolet small-block V8 with 0.030"-over TRW pistons, 194 valves, hardened pushrods, Crane cam and lifters, Z28 valve springs, screw-in studs, a 600 cfm Holley carburetor on a stock cast intake, balanced by Bob Mead. Headers were built and galvanised by Ray Mexted, who also mounted the 2.75:1 ratio Ford 9-inch rear axle using the stock handbrake system; the transmission is a reconditioned TH350 Pontiac. Paint is Diamond Dulon metallic fading to black with a custom pink mix, plus six coats of clear. The front end retains the original torsion bars (cranked up) with Gabriel Red Ryder shocks and stock drum brakes; wheels are Aunger 5-slots (14x7 front with Yokohama 205.60s, 14x8 rear with Winfield radial 60 TAs). Photography by Owen Campbell. Three photos show the truck's exterior and engine bay.