In Edinburg, Texas, where truck culture runs deep, Jose Sanchez’s 1984 Chevrolet C10—affectionately known as “Ugly Betty”—stands as proof that the most meaningful builds aren’t bought, they’re earned. What began as a simple desire to fulfill his wife’s dream of owning a vintage cruiser evolved into a one-of-a-kind custom truck built with patience, persistence, and plenty of late nights in the garage.
By day, Jose works as an electrical project manager. By night, he’s a hands-on builder with a clear vision. Over the course of roughly a year and a half, Jose transformed a once-stock C10 into a show-stopping machine, investing around $55,000 along with countless hours of sweat equity. The result is a truck that reflects both craftsmanship and character—unapologetically different yet thoughtfully executed.
A Body That Commands Attention
From every angle, Ugly Betty showcases meticulous attention to detail. The truck wears a striking two-tone paint scheme that blends factory Cardinal Red with 2019 Ford Magnetic Gray, merging classic Chevrolet heritage with a modern edge. Bodywork was handled by Sergio Loredo of Loredo’s Body Shop in Guadalupe, Nuevo León, Mexico, where subtle yet extensive modifications elevate the truck’s presence.
Drip rails, cab body lines, stake pockets, cargo light, fuel door, and side mirrors were shaved for a cleaner profile. The tailgate handle was relocated, while both front and rear bumpers were narrowed and shortened—custom touches that add refinement without overpowering the truck’s vintage identity. Every change serves a purpose, reinforcing the idea that less chrome and cleaner lines can speak louder than excess.
Modern Muscle Under the Hood
Powering Ugly Betty is a 5.3L Chevy V-8 sourced from a 2002 Silverado, delivering modern reliability with plenty of punch. Jose integrated the drivetrain using GSI engine mounts and a transmission crossmember, along with a PSI standalone harness to ensure clean, reliable operation. Supporting mods include a Holley oil pan, Speed Engineering headers, and a Magnaflow 2½-inch exhaust system, giving the truck a sound that matches its attitude.
Shifts are handled by a 4L80E transmission from a 2004 Chevrolet, upgraded by JR Transmission in San Juan, Texas, and paired with a Circle D custom torque converter featuring a 3,000-rpm stall. Power is sent to a narrowed 1971 Chevy Cheyenne 12-bolt rear axle, fitted with Moser axles, Yukon Posi, and aggressive 4.56 gears, ensuring Ugly Betty puts power down with authority.
Built to Ride—and Stop
Jose handled the frame modifications himself, carefully tailoring the chassis to match the truck’s stance and performance goals. Air Lift air bags up front allow for adjustable ride height, while QA1 coilovers in the rear provide balanced handling and comfort. Bringing everything to a controlled stop are 16-inch Wilwood six-piston brakes at all four corners—because performance isn’t just about speed.
Rolling on Statement-Making Wheels
No custom build is complete without the right wheels, and Ugly Betty doesn’t disappoint. Up front sit 22×9-inch Raceline Cheyenne wheels, while the rear is filled with massive 24×12-inch rollers, creating an aggressive, unmistakable stance. Nitto 420S tires—275/35R22 front and 305/35R24 rear—wrap the wheels, providing both grip and show-ready style.
A Refined Cabin with Personality
Inside, the transformation continues. Jacobo De La Roca of Bros Shop Kustoms reworked the factory bench seat, blending leather with gray graphite plaid for a look that’s both classic and custom. Interior moldings were wrapped in leather to match, elevating the overall fit and finish.
Modern conveniences were seamlessly integrated, including a Dakota Digital speed converter, Raceline steering wheel, Pioneer head unit, and Skar audio components, ensuring the cabin sounds as good as it looks—whether cruising the highway or pulling into a show.
Built to Be Seen
Ugly Betty has already made her mark on the show circuit, appearing at major events like Dino’s Git Down and Lone Star Throwdown, where she continues to earn admiration from enthusiasts and builders alike. And the build isn’t finished—future plans include flush-mount front and rear glass to further refine the truck’s sleek profile.
Lessons from the Build
For Jose, the journey was just as important as the destination. The build taught him patience, perseverance, and the value of trusting his instincts.
“Build what you envision,” he says. “Don’t let anyone else sway your decisions. It’s the unique details—like the modified bumpers and minimal chrome—that make the truck yours.”
More Than a Truck
In the end, Ugly Betty is far more than a custom C10. She’s a rolling testament to dedication, creativity, and the bond between builder, family, and machine. For Jose Sanchez, that’s a legacy worth every hour—and every mile.
TRUCK SPECS
Owner: Jose Sanchez
Location: Edinburg, Texas
Truck: 1984 Chevy C10
Engine & Drivetrain
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5.3L Chevy V-8 (2002 Silverado)
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GSI engine mounts and transmission crossmember
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PSI standalone harness
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Holley oil pan
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Speed Engineering headers
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Magnaflow 2½-inch exhaust with mufflers
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4L80E transmission (2004 Chevy)
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Circle D custom torque converter (3,000-stall)
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Trans Cool transmission cooler
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1971 Chevy Cheyenne 12-bolt rear axle (narrowed)
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Moser axle shafts
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Yukon Posi
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4.56 gear ratio
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
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22×9 Raceline Cheyenne (front, 6" backspacing)
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24×12 Raceline Cheyenne (rear, 4.25" backspacing)
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Nitto 420S tires
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275/35R22 front
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305/35R24 rear
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16-inch Wilwood six-piston brakes (front & rear)
Body & Paint
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Factory Cardinal Red
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2019 Ford Magnetic Gray
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Shaved drip rails, cab body line, stake pockets, cargo light
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Shaved fuel door and side mirrors
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Relocated tailgate handle
-
Narrowed and shortened front and rear bumpers
Interior & Audio
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Factory bench seat
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Custom leather and gray graphite plaid upholstery
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Leather-wrapped interior moldings
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Dakota Digital speed converter
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Raceline steering wheel
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Pioneer head unit
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Skar audio components
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