[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by Nick_R_23

Initially, I also wanted to make this as close to a real looking original 454SS as possible. However, with the 96+ cab and interior, and 96+ engine, I thought, why not build the 454SS Chevy could have built if they had kept making them into the 96+ trucks, and add the 96+ grille as well? It would be a subtle exterior change, and match the rest of the same model year parts. What’s everyone’s opinion? Stick with the 88-93 flat grille, or build a 96+ 454SS?

This is exactly how I would go.

Use GM's 454 concept & build it to suit your wants while still keeping the styling/heritage of the original in spirit. Be the engineer that doesn't have to worry about someone from corporate looking over his shoulder while basically checking all the option boxes he thought would make a 'cool' truck. OE LS era reliability w/brute power.