Franklin Resident Restores 1985 Chevrolet K20 Pickup
Local enthusiast Josh Anderson transforms a classic pickup into a high-profile show truck.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Trucks
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Franklin resident Josh Anderson has completed a frame-up restoration of a 1985 Chevrolet K20 Scottsdale. The custom pickup is now designed specifically for display at regional car shows.
Why it matters
The project serves as a tribute to the car culture of the 1990s, allowing the owner to preserve a piece of automotive history through a complete mechanical and aesthetic overhaul.
The truck is powered by a 385-cubic-inch stroker V8 engine and rides on 44-inch Super Swamper Bogger tires. The build includes a 12-inch suspension lift paired with a 3-inch body lift, all completed during a 4-month transformation period.
The players
Josh Anderson
A Franklin, Tennessee resident who specializes in the frame-up restoration of classic pickup trucks.
The details
Anderson performed the bodywork and mechanical assembly, opting for a factory Colorado Gold Metallic finish. The drivetrain features a 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 automatic transmission and specialized shock mounts to handle the custom ride height.
Timeline
1973 marks the start of the third-generation Chevrolet C/K production line.
1985 was the original production year for this specific Chevrolet K20 model.
2026 is the year the custom restoration was featured in this report.
Roadmap
This restoration highlights the enduring legacy of the third-generation Chevrolet C/K production as a platform for heavy-duty customization. It reflects a growing market trend where enthusiasts prioritize show-quality preservation of vintage truck platforms over functional daily driving.
For local car enthusiasts, this build demonstrates the level of detail required for a competitive frame-up restoration. It also underscores the importance of sourcing original factory finishes when aiming for high-value show aesthetics.
The takeaway
Restoring a classic truck is a time-intensive process that balances historical accuracy with modern mechanical modifications. Fans of custom automotive work can improve their own projects by focusing on consistent build themes like Anderson’s 1990s-inspired setup.
Further reading
For more on vehicle builds in the area, visit the Trucks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Autoevolution.
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Do you prefer modified trucks for their visual style or for their original off-road utility?
