496 Big Block C10 Build – The Game Warden | Premier Speed Solutions

February 20, 2026

If you’re searching for a C10 big block swap, a 496 big block Chevy build, or a street/strip truck built in Georgia, this project checks every box.

This is The Game Warden. A1986 GMC Sierra transformed by Premier Speed Solutions into a 496-powered street and strip machine that’s completed Power Tour and become a staple at local Georgia car shows.

The Donor: 1986 GMC Sierra Patrol Truck

The Game Warden began life as a patrol vehicle for the Georgia Game and Fish Commission, now part of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Factory configuration:

305ci small-block Chevy
4-speed manual transmission
Fleetside short bed
Rear-wheel drive
3.08:1 final drive ratio

Today, it’s a completely re-engineered performance truck.

496 Big Block Chevy Engine Build

At the heart of this C10 is a Premier Speed Solutions–built 496 cubic inch big block Chevy.

Engine Specs:

4.310” bore x 4.250” stroke
10:1 compression ratio
Eagle forged crankshaft
Scat forged rods w/ ARP2000 bolts
Wiseco forged pistons
Aluminum heads (320cc intake runners / 122cc chambers)
Comp hydraulic roller cam (.230/.236 @ .050, 110 LSA)
Edelbrock intake manifold
Holley Sniper EFI with HyperSpark ignition

This combination delivers modern drivability with old-school big block torque.

Initial Dyno Results:

490 WHP
593 lb-ft at the wheels
Estimated 560–580 HP at the crank

T56 Magnum & 3.55 Gear Setup

To make this C10 both strip-capable and highway-friendly, we paired the 496 with:

Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed
3.55:1 rear gear ratio
Ford 9-inch rear end
Custom driveshaft from Ron’s Driveline

This gearing allows aggressive acceleration while keeping RPM low during long-distance cruising, ideal for events like Power Tour.

C10 Suspension & Handling Upgrades

Power is nothing without control. This truck received a complete suspension overhaul:

QA1 tubular control arms
QA1 dual-adjustable coilovers (all four corners)
2” drop spindles
QA1 front sway bar
Quick-ratio steering box
New steering components throughout

The result? A classic squarebody that drives like a modern performance vehicle.

Fuel System & Supporting Mods

255 LPH in-tank pump
Returnless-style system
-6 AN feed line
Serviceable inline filter
Brand-new fuel tank

We started with a completely fresh fuel system to ensure clean delivery and long-term reliability. Out with the old, in with the new.

Added performance features:

Line lock
2-step launch control
Electronic exhaust cutouts

Because sometimes you just need the smokiest burnout possible.

Styling & Custom Details

The Game Warden maintains its heritage while elevating the details:

Factory exterior paint
Updated graphics by Michelle Abbott’s Pinstriping & Lettering
Fresh engine bay paint
Custom faux patina cowl hood by Nick Henderson
Rally-style wheels
Custom “Warden 496” badges
Custom Warden-themed valve covers
Matching Warden air cleaner
Concept One serpentine system
Custom Alcantara interior by Atlanta Stitchworks

Street & Strip Proven

This isn’t a trailer queen. The Game Warden has completed Power Tour and regularly appears at Georgia car shows and cruise nights. It’s built to drive, built to perform, and built to represent what Premier Speed Solutions can do.