1997 Chevy Silverado 1500

“OBSkilla”

Owned by: Chris Echel

Photos by: Chris Gosda

When Chris Echel picked up this 1997 Chevy Silverado 1500 from his dad as a daily driver, he had no clue he was about to start a 16-year obsession. What was supposed to be a practical truck quickly turned into “OBS Killa,” a name that says it all: this OBS (Old Body Style) doesn’t just show up—it takes out the competition.

From body mods to show-quality paint, a custom audio system, and a killer stance, OBS Killa is easily one of the baddest builds in the country. And according to Chris? He’s still not done.

Why “OBS Killa”?

Simple. This truck’s built to stand above the rest—and Chris isn’t shy about it. It’s got the style, sound, and power to back up its bold name. What started as a father-son vehicle evolved into a rolling tribute to creativity, craftsmanship, and never leaving well enough alone.

From Firefighter Truck to Frame-Dropped Masterpiece

This Silverado has history. It started out as Chris’s father’s volunteer firefighter truck, making him the second owner. Once in Chris’s hands, though, the truck began its transformation—one modification at a time.

After 16 years (and counting), here’s what’s under the hood and beneath the frame:

• 355 small-block Chevy V8 with Holley Sniper EFI, Sanderson headers, and a cam

• Turbo 350 transmission with shift kit & 2400 stall

• 3/4 custom tube frame, Belltech spindles, Stone Fab control arms, and Slam Specialties air suspension

• Airlift 3P management, Bilstein shocks, dual Viair 485C compressors

• 24×9 front & 24×12 rear Snyper Forged wheels wrapped in low-pro tires

• 3/4 body drop, suicide doors, shaved handles, cowl hood, and drip rail delete

Paint So Clean It Looks Digital

The truck rocks Tamco’s Bluetiful paint, accented with slick silver metallic flames and a lime green pinstripe. All the body work and paint was done by Smokey Mountain Rod & Customs in Knoxville, TN—and it shows. Everything is tucked, clean, and finished like a show truck should be.

Inside the OBS Killa

Step inside and you’ll see that the interior is just as dialed in as the exterior:

• Gray leather wrap throughout with LED-lit piping

• Dakota Digital gauges

• One-off center console, custom kick panels, and leather-wrapped door panels

• DD Audio system featuring VO-M6.5a mids, VO-B2a tweeters, subwoofers, and multiple amps

• Vintage Air A/C, custom steering wheel, and Pioneer AVH-W4500 head unit

Stereo install was handled by Josh Boogie @ Southern Fried Garage, while the interior was built by Doug and Tanya Ehrenwald @ Advanced Coatings and Trim.

What’s Next?

Chris has put his heart, wallet, and sleepless nights into OBS Killa—and while he jokes about being nervous to drive it on modern roads, he’s not about to let it sit.

“I’ll be damned if I put all this time and money into my truck just for someone else to enjoy it.”

Future plans? Cruising with his girlfriend while proving other cars aren’t as fast as they think they are.