Hot Rod Bio: LT4 Powered Classic Tow Truck Build at SEMA 2024

A Standout Working Truck at SEMA
While walking SEMA 2024, this classic pickup immediately grabbed attention sitting just outside Central Hall. Dane Bremer from CVF Racing caught up with Brian from Zaccardi Built Garage, the fabricator behind the build, to break down what makes this truck special.

Modern LT4 Powertrain
Under the hood sits a 2021 LT4 pulled from a Camaro, paired with a ten speed automatic transmission. The setup produces 650 horsepower, bringing modern supercharged performance to a classic truck platform while maintaining reliability and drivability.

Clean Engine Bay with CVF Serpentine Drive
The LT4 is finished with custom valve covers featuring the Zaccardi Built Garage logo. Up front, the engine runs a CVF serpentine accessory drive system. The setup delivers clean fitment and dependable operation, and Brian noted they have used CVF systems on multiple builds with great results.

Cooling and Intake Setup
Cooling is handled by an Entropy radiator, paired with an in house fabricated intake and a K and N style cone filter. Everything under the hood was laid out to stay clean while supporting the demands of the LT4 drivetrain.

Extensive Sheet Metal Work
This truck required significant metal work to get it where it is today. Custom wheel tubs were fabricated to fit the massive 24.5 inch wheels wrapped in Downforce Motorsports tires. The firewall was recessed one inch and a custom transmission tunnel was built to accommodate the modern drivetrain.

Lowered Stance with Air Suspension
The bed was sectioned and dropped three and a half inches so it lays flat with the rockers when aired out. Air suspension is powered by four VIAIR 485 compressors hidden under the bed, along with dual Optima batteries and a dedicated air management system to keep everything clean and out of sight.

Functional Tow Rig Setup
Despite its show quality appearance, this truck is built to work. It originally ran a PTO driven winch, which was replaced with a Warn 12,000 pound electric winch. The setup is fully functional and capable of towing other vehicles, making this more than just a display piece.

Chassis and Rear Axle Details
The truck rides on a chassis built by Pille Chassis out of Arizona. Out back is a narrowed corporate 14 bolt rear axle with 3.42 gears and a limited slip differential. Braking is handled by a Little Shop 16 inch brake kit with Wilwood components front and rear.

Built Big and Built Strong
This truck carries some serious weight, requiring creative shop solutions just to work on it. According to Brian, it takes two lifts to rotate and service the chassis, a testament to how substantial the build really is.

A True Blend of Show and Function
From its LT4 powertrain to its working tow equipment, this classic pickup perfectly blends modern performance, fabrication skill, and real world functionality. It is the kind of build that draws attention at SEMA while still being capable of doing real work.

To see the full walk around and hear the details straight from the builder, watch the complete video on the CVF Racing YouTube channel.