1966 GMC Suburban LS Swap

1966 GMC Suburban –

LS Swap | SEMA Feature Build

Legacy Reimagined. Twice-Built to Turn Heads.

Built by Finish Line Speed Shop
Debuted at SEMA 2018 with Covercraft

• Reimagined for SEMA 2023 with Hedman Hedders

The Story Behind the Build

This 1966 GMC Suburban isn’t just a custom—it’s a rolling tribute to family legacy. Built to commemorate the year Chuck Haselwood earned his GMC franchise, the project was envisioned by Rick Wiler as a way to celebrate the roots of a lifelong passion for trucks.

We took that vision to heart, spending 18 months creating a frame-off build that honored the past while embracing modern performance. The result was a showstopping debut at SEMA 2018, where it was featured in the Covercraft Car Covers booth.

Fast forward to 2023, and this Suburban was ready for a bold transformation. With long-time partners Hedman Hedders and just 30 days on the clock, we gave it a complete overhaul—proving once again what’s possible when passion meets pressure.

Technical Highlights

Major Updates for SEMA 2023:

• LS Swap conversion

• PorterBuilt Fabrication front suspension system

• FiTech Ultimate LS “Rebel” EFI system (new-to-market installation)

• Fully custom TIG-welded stainless exhaust featuring Black Widow Mufflers

• Complete systems refresh, detailing, and tuning—ready just in time for the show

Built By:

• Finish Line Speed Shop Team
  Led by Lyon McClenahan

Most Memorable Moment:

“I’ve had the chance to drive some truly amazing builds, but this one is special. During the Detroit Steel Wheel photo shoot in the Las Vegas Arts District, I got to watch my daughter and son-in-law experience the Suburban together. That memory—seeing our family connected through something we built—was once in a lifetime.”
— Jennifer

The Challenge:

From the technical side, the most demanding part of this build was the 2023 SEMA transformation—performing an LS swap, updating to modern EFI and suspension, fabricating a new exhaust, and buttoning it all up in just 30 days. It was an all-hands-on-deck mission, but the results speak for themselves.

Twice the SEMA. Twice the Impact.

This Suburban has seen both the journey and the evolution.

First a tribute to history, now a symbol of progress and resilience.

With a perfect blend of classic character and

modern muscle & comfort, it’s proof that great builds

don’t just get done—they grow.