Santos -1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 Regular Cab

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Santos

1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 Regular Cab

Instagram: @biglipsandwidehips

YouTube: Big Lips and Wide Hips

Photographer: Shankey Bhikha - @sbhikha__photography

Website:- https://sbhikhaphotography.net/portfolio/

From Passion to Reality

I’m Santos, 32 years old, born and raised in Houston, Texas. By day, I work for an Oil and Gas company that produces everything from gasoline and diesel to high-grade plastics and rubber. The job keeps me sharp — it’s challenging, but it gives me space to grow. Yet, my biggest passion has always been cars and trucks.

Since childhood, I’ve dreamed of owning and building something truly mine. Like many of us, that dream started with admiration — standing at car shows, staring at trucks that gleamed under the Texas sun, wondering when it would be my turn.

The Truck Scene Hook

My introduction to the truck scene came in 2010 through my friends Alex and Robert. One show was all it took — I was hooked. The creativity, the stance, the craftsmanship — it was addictive. Back then, I couldn’t afford a truck. Bills came first. But I told myself: one day. That day came sooner than expected when I totaled the car I was driving. What felt like a setback became a blessing — my chance to finally build the truck I’d always wanted.

The First Build – 2008 GMC Sierra

I picked up a 2008 GMC Sierra Single Cab. It started as a stock daily, but over the years, it evolved — new front end, lowered suspension, and shiny Intro Billet wheels.

That Sierra became my first statement. Every bolt tightened, every tweak made — it reflected the same kid who once dreamed of this moment. But while the Sierra satisfied my creative side, something else called my name…

The Dream Car – Red Z06 Corvette

I’ve always had a soft spot for Corvettes. There’s something timeless about a red Z06 — aggressive, iconic, a true American symbol. When I finally had the chance, I sold the truck and bought my dream car — a 2007 Red Z06 Corvette. There was just one small problem: I didn’t know how to drive a manual.

A buddy drove it home, and I spent days watching “How to Drive Manual” videos on YouTube and practicing in company trucks. After a few stalls (and a lot of patience), I mastered it. Finally, I was living the dream. But as time passed, I realized something was missing. It wasn’t speed. It wasn’t power. It was the truck scene.

Back to the Roots – Finding the Step Side

That itch never went away. I missed the stance culture, the camaraderie, and the freedom of creating something unique. So, I sold the Corvette and started hunting for my next project — a single cab step side Silverado.

Those trucks are rare. Fleetsides dominate the scene, but I wanted to stand out — something bold, something that turns heads. After searching, I found the perfect one: a 1999 Chevy Silverado Step Side.

But it almost didn’t happen. The seller and I couldn’t agree on a price, and he drove off. Sitting in a Hobby Lobby parking lot with Alex and Robert, I debated letting it go. Eventually, I called the seller back. We struck a deal — and just like that, “Big Lips and Wide Hips” was born.

Building Big Lips and Wide Hips

I knew I wanted it slammed with big billet wheels — that’s the Texas way. To make it happen, I needed the right suspension shop. YouTube led me to Reklez Suspension Works, one of Houston’s finest in custom suspension.Julio and the Reklez team delivered perfection. We went with front airbag suspension and fully adjustable QA1 coil-overs in the rear — ideal for that smooth stance and control.

And the wheels? Texas doesn’t do small. I chose Intro Houston II’s: 26x9 up front and 28x12 reverse with a 10-inch lip. The result? Absolute showstopper.The build began during Covid, and despite the challenges, Reklez executed flawlessly. Every ride feels like a statement — it’s not just a truck; it’s personality on wheels.

I have plans to make some performance and interior upgrades. Maybe a Whipple supercharger or a turbo. We’ll see what the future has in store. A definite must is to upgrade the brakes with Wildwood big disc brakes. BLWH is also equipped with a Comp custom grind cam, Texas Speed Headers, and a Carven exhaust. If you enjoy the sound of an LS engine popping popcorn at any time of the day, then you should definitely check out my videos on Instagram or on YouTube. It’s like music to your ears! 

If you enjoyed this Truck why not read this ONE HERE

This entire process has been a blast. I’ve had the opportunity to meet a lot of dope people. Whether it’s been at shows or when driving BLWH around town. I’ve been extremely fortunate to have been able to build what I now consider my dream truck. To anyone wanting to purchase or build their dream vehicle, you can do it. Set goals for yourself and invest in yourself. Work hard and dedicate yourself to your craft and you will see that all your hard work will pay off. I am an open book when it comes to my build. If someone out there has any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to me via Instagram DM. I enjoy sharing my journey with others, but also the knowledge I’ve gained. 

Big Lips and Wide Hips – The Specs

Exterior and Suspension

• 1999 Chevy Silverado 1500 Step Side
• 03–06 front end with 2” cowl hood
• Custom Reklez front airbag suspension
• Reklez 3-link rear suspension with QA1 coil-overs
• Hydro boost conversion
• Relocated battery, fuse box, and PCM
• 26x9 & 28x12 reverse Intro Houston II Billet Wheels

Audio Setup

• Deaf Bonce Apocalypse & Infinity Kappa door speakers
• (3) JL Audio TW3 12” subwoofers
• Rockford Fosgate T10001bd amp
• Hannibal Deaf Bonce AHL-200.4 amp
• 400-amp Mechman alternator
• Optima Yellow Top battery

Engine Mods

• Comp Custom Grind Cam
• Texas Speed Long Tube Headers
• Carven Exhaust

Every modification was carefully thought through to balance show quality with drivability — because I don’t just build to park; I build to drive.

Looking Ahead

Next on the list? More performance and detail. Maybe a Whipple supercharger, a full interior refresh, and Wildwood big disc brakes. Each idea keeps the momentum alive.

This build taught me something powerful — success comes from persistence. Every late night, every setback, every turn of a wrench leads to something you can be proud of.

Advice for Fellow Enthusiasts

If you’re chasing your dream build, do it. Set goals, work hard, and believe in yourself. Don’t let setbacks stop you — use them as motivation. The truck scene is full of people willing to help and inspire, just like Alex, Robert, and Julio did for me.

If you ever have questions about my build or need advice, message me on Instagram. I’m always down to help a fellow enthusiast chasing their dream ride.

Call to Action

Do you have a build story like this one? Got a build on a budget? We want to see it. Submit your story to Stance Auto Magazine, and you could be the next featured owner showing the world how to do it right—without breaking the bank.

And hey, don’t forget to tag us on socials. Use #stanceautomag on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook so we can see (and maybe feature) your ride.

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