99 K2500 GMC Suburban Command Unit Project

[LT7A]

That's a neat rig. It has a command presence and stance. Inside, a nice combination of comfort and utility. I'll enjoy seeing what you decide to do with this one.

[DeadheadNM]

Thanks guys. Shop says some leakage from the head gaskets and oil pan and the front brake pads are low. Having those buttoned up then off to the suspension shop to get the new U bolts bent and alignment checked.

I’d really like to install a roof rack/basket to facilitate canoe transport. No factory roof rails though. I suppose I could source OEM pieces but maybe there’s another aftermarket option. I’d have to drill holes either way.

[DeadheadNM]

Just a brief update. The motor checked out fine and some wearables like the glow plugs, harmonic balancer, oil cooler lines, and fluids were replaced. The rear axle wears new U-bolts, nos OE shocks are in place, and it’s aligned.

Today I added an upgrade OE radio with a tape deck and a CD player. Took pains to not break the tabs on the intervening AC control unit but that ended up happening anyway

[DeadheadNM]

Added a dash mat to cut glare and help preserve the dash, a vintage Club to as a theft deterrent, and an old school steering wheel cover.

I also dropped by a metal fabrication shop today to get a quote on aluminum and steel roof racks. Since there are no existing roof rails the plan at the moment would be make use of stainless steel riv nuts for attachment. I hope the rack comes to fruition.

[Ol Blue K20]

Looks nice. The rack would be a nice addition too.

[IronCanine]

Love the radio upgrade..roof rack is a must. Also, please consider a 102" rear quarter or bumper mount CB antenna that you loop down. Completely on brand for the Command Unit.

...oh, and the MM floor mat...I mean c'mon!

[DeadheadNM]

Thanks guys. The CB is a great idea. I’ll add that to the to-do list. I knew one day I’d find a use for the MM floor mats.

The existing vinyl flooring in the truck is ill fitting over the tranny hump and I’m unsure if it’s OE or installed by an upfitter. I was able to get a good price on a molded gray vinyl mat from ACC for the entire floor that I’m hoping will clean up the look a bit.

On a recent trip out west I was able to pick a few nice parts including power seat bracket for the driver side (just tested and in good working order). This should help the boss see over the steering wheel I’ll clean and lube these ahead of install.

Also pieced together a complete set of GM parts to install correct roof marker lamps including screws, gaskets, and clips. The local Chevy parts guy told me this was the last harness listed in the system nationwide. Here’s the install tutorial I plan to follow: https://www.gmt400.com/threads/cab-light-install.117/ but apparently the female plug is buried deep inside the dash and I need to chase that location down in advance or locate the appropriate wire at the fuse block.

[DeadheadNM]

These are the patches sealing the holes for the light bar equipment that was removed. I need to figure a permanent fix ahead of the roof rack install and welcome any suggestions.

[baconmaker]

https://www.mcmaster.com/knockout-pl...n-panel-plugs/

these come in a lot of different diameters, and with a little gasket maker in the groove would look good and seal too.

[LT7A]

Originally Posted by baconmaker

https://www.mcmaster.com/knockout-pl...n-panel-plugs/

these come in a lot of different diameters, and with a little gasket maker in the groove would look good and seal too.

Well done. I'll bet you could paint them and if you used adhesion promoter that it would hold up pretty well.

Deadhead, are you not having luck at pick and pulls for an OEM roof rack? Seems like it should be find-able there or on a rusty Burb part-out. I'm enjoying watching you get the rig dialed-in.

[DeadheadNM]

Originally Posted by LT7A

Well done. I'll bet you could paint them and if you used adhesion promoter that it would hold up pretty well.

Deadhead, are you not having luck at pick and pulls for an OEM roof rack? Seems like it should be find-able there or on a rusty Burb part-out. I'm enjoying watching you get the rig dialed-in.

Thanks for all the good suggestions to seal the roof holes.

I went and got more roof holes All OE roof marker lamps are now installed. Looking good! I’ll post more pics soon.

[IronCanine]

Bellisomo!!! Cab lights are the best (on 3/4T and up of course). You are really doing right by this truck.