Welcome back to Episode 5 of the International Loadstar Build, where we’re transforming a 1967 International grain truck into a slammed, street-legal custom cruiser on a 2012 Chevy Express van chassis. In this episode, we dive deep into the steering column installation, brake pedal setup, and custom bracket fabrication that brings this ambitious swap closer to the road.
If you’re just joining the series, hit that subscribe button and check out the previous episodes to see how we got here!
Steering Column Installation & Dash Modification
The first order of business was reworking the dash to properly fit the van’s modern tilt steering column. Sam used an air saw to cut through multiple layers of steel in the Loadstar’s factory dash, carefully clearing room for the column to sit comfortably without compromising pedal placement.
💡 Pro Tip: To temporarily hold the column in place, Sam used ratchet straps—quick, adjustable, and surprisingly stable for test fitting.
He then drilled through the firewall to route the column into the engine bay. After realizing the initial hole was slightly off-angle, Sam readjusted and fabricated a custom plate to seal the steering column pass-through properly.
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Custom Brackets for Steering Support
To secure the column long-term, two custom brackets were built:
- Upper bracket: Tied into the dash support beam with bolts and will later be boxed in for additional strength.
- Lower bracket: A sandwiched mounting plate system between 12-gauge steel and the firewall, providing a rock-solid mount with removable access.
Everything was mocked up, TIG welded, and checked for alignment—no detail overlooked.
Brake Pedal & Pedal Box Tweaks
With the steering column set, attention shifted to the brake pedal. The van’s curved brake pedal was reused but needed modification to fit the Loadstar’s tighter interior. Sam documented how he plans to cut, reposition, and re-angle the pedal for:
- Better foot spacing
- Cleaner alignment with the gas pedal
- More legroom for the driver
A cardboard template was used to plan firewall mounting and simplify the process before making final cuts in metal.
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Extending the Steering Shaft
Due to changes in steering column angle, the intermediate shaft needed extending. Sam TIG welded in a precision-cut piece of tubing, cleaned up the inner seam with a file sander, and ensured smooth fitment without play. The result? Seamless steering input, safely reinforced and professionally executed.
Dash, Gauges & Display Options
With the column mocked up, thoughts turned to gauges. The debate?
- Old-school analog look, fitting the classic Loadstar vibe
- Modern OBD2 digital display, offering plug-and-play diagnostics
Drop a comment if you have a vote—we’re leaning toward a retro-styled digital cluster that blends classic looks with modern function.
Final Thoughts: One Step Closer to Road-Ready
By the end of Episode 5:
- ✅ Steering column securely mounted
- ✅ Brake pedal mocked up and ready for refinement
- ✅ Firewall bracket system fabricated
- ✅ Intermediate steering shaft extended
- ✅ Ongoing planning for gas pedal, radiator, and final brake plumbing
Sam and the StealthBuilt team are getting close to firing this beast up!
🎉 Milestone Moment: YouTube Creator Award
This episode also marks a special moment—Sam received his YouTube Creator Silver Play Button for surpassing 100,000 subscribers! After years of grinding in the garage and building insane custom rigs, it’s a well-earned milestone and a heartfelt thank-you to the community.
“This channel has been a dream of mine for years. Thanks to all of you for making it real.” — Sam Kimmel
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New episodes drop weekly, covering everything from custom chassis work to vintage-inspired flatbeds and air suspension setups. Don’t miss the next chapter in the Loadstar’s transformation.
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