Eli G’s Custom International Truck
Eli G enjoys building vehicles on his channel Goldies Garage. We previously shared his wild LSx-powered ArmorWorks Hyena when it debuted at LS Fest West 2024. Before that Eli built a unique off-road truck combining the classic looks of a 1949 International truck with modern power and dependability.
The project began in 2015 when Eli purchased a 1949 International Harvester KB-2 off Craigslist. He turned to CoPart and purchased a 2014 Jeep JK Unlimited Rubicon and 2011 Chevy Silverado 2500HD 4WD. It took over two years to build the custom truck with the majority of the work completed in a driveway.
The truck starts with a 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon chassis which Eli upgraded with TeraFlex long arm suspension on the front and rear. The front uses 5.5-inch MetalCloak springs and Fox shocks valved for a 2006 Dodge 2500 4×4. In back are 4-inch springs with Fox shocks. Under the fenders Eli installed AEV Borah DualSport 17-inch wheels with BFGoodrich KM3 37-inch tires.
In the engine bay Eli swapped a 6.0 L L96 V8 and 6L90E six-speed automatic transmission taken from a 2011 Chevy 2500HD 4WD truck. The transmission is paired to an Atlas transfer case (3.8:1 ratio). Driveshafts from Adams Driveshafts send power to a TeraFlex Tera44 front axle and rearward to a TeraFlex CRD60 rear axle. Both have 5.13 ratios.
As mentioned earlier the Eli chose to use body from a 1949 International Harvester KB-2. The bed received a custom tailgate, BedSlide 1000 lb slide, and US Cargo L-track tie downs. Eli improved the truck’s off-road capability with skid plates by MetalCloak, Expedition One, and Rough Country. The front also received a custom bumper with an Apex 12K winch.
On the inside Eli installed mid-2000’s Volkswagen Golf front seats. In front of that is a 1967 Corvette walnut steering wheel on a Summit Racing column. A set of Autometer and Old Tyme gauges display important information. You can read more about the project and follow the progress in the build tread or watch the build on Goldies Garage channel.
