Truck Makeovers Without The Madness
About this episode
The In-Wheel Time Podcast dives into truck modifications with guests from Texas Truck Works, discussing everything from mild makeovers to major upgrades. The hosts explore popular aftermarket options like lift kits, bed covers, and wheels, while sharing personal stories about their own vehicles. The conversation highlights the growing interest in off-roading and the balance of aesthetics versus functionality in truck customization. Listeners will appreciate insights on popular models, customer demographics, and the evolving landscape of truck enthusiasts.
Want a truck or Jeep that turns heads without turning your commute into a chore? We’re live from the Houston Auto Show with the crew from Texas Truckworks to map out upgrades that deliver real value: two-inch leveling kits for a cleaner stance, right-size tires for comfort and grip, and bed covers that earn their keep every single day. We get tactical about wheels that won’t punish ride quality, sidewall that protects on rough roads, and setups that keep your highway manners intact while adding weekend capability.
The conversation goes beyond parts into purpose. We talk building for trails over mud, why overlanding and rock crawling reward preparation, and how clubs help new drivers gain skills without breaking parts. You’ll hear how women are reshaping Jeep culture—leading trail runs, organizing charity rides, and building confident rigs. Then we open the hood on the purist debate around engine swaps, comparing brand-loyal Hemi or Coyote builds with LS conversions, and explain when tuning, exhaust, and cooling upgrades are smarter than chasing peak horsepower.
We wrap with a rapid-fire market pulse: surprising recall alerts owners should check now, and a “guess the price” classic car roundup that drops jaws—a clean ’69 GTO Judge, a survivor-grade Mopar with a shaker hood, a depreciated Porsche sedan, and more. The lesson repeats across every segment: match the build to your life, verify the details, and iterate with intention.
If you’re planning your first upgrade or refining a seasoned rig, this one’s packed with practical advice, real-world numbers, and a few hot takes to sharpen your plan. Enjoy the ride, then subscribe, leave a rating, and share this episode with a friend who’s about to order wheels they’ll regret.
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air suspension
"So air suspensions. We do a little bit of that for their heavy hauling loads, their helper bags to go in the back."
Air suspension is a system that uses air instead of metal springs to support the weight of a vehicle. It can make the ride smoother and allows you to change how high or low the vehicle sits.
Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension that uses air-filled bags instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. This allows for adjustable ride height and improved ride quality, especially under varying loads.
four wheel drive
"I've always loved four wheel drive jeeps and trucks since I was a little kid, like most little kids. And just when I got old enough to, you know, swipe the credit card and, you know, we just it never ends."
Four wheel drive means that all four wheels of the vehicle can move at the same time, which helps the car grip the road better, especially on rough terrain or in bad weather.
Four wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road conditions or adverse weather.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...I want to change it out. I'm a Corvette owner. I know."
The Corvette is a fast and stylish car made by Chevrolet. It's famous for being a classic American sports car that many people love to drive.
The Corvette is a sports car produced by Chevrolet, known for its performance and distinctive design. It has a long history and is often associated with American muscle and sports car culture.
Easter Jeep Safari
"...done the Easter Jeep Safari and Moab. It's always the week before Easter every year is whenever Easter is right. And it's just Jeep is there with prototypes and all the vendors."
The Easter Jeep Safari is a fun event where Jeep fans come together to drive their vehicles on special trails in Moab, Utah. It's a great way to see new Jeep models and meet other Jeep lovers.
The Easter Jeep Safari is an annual off-roading event held in Moab, Utah, where Jeep enthusiasts gather to participate in various trails and activities. It showcases new Jeep prototypes and offers a chance for fans to connect with the brand and each other.
off-roading
"...and it's just a good time with off-roading."
Off-roading means driving on rough surfaces like dirt or rocks instead of regular roads. People often use special vehicles that can handle these tough conditions.
Off-roading refers to driving vehicles on unpaved surfaces, including dirt, mud, sand, and rocky terrain. It often involves specialized vehicles designed for rugged conditions, such as SUVs and trucks.
Ram
"I have a 2014 Jeep that I use and I have a Ram truck that I also drive."
A Ram truck is a type of pickup truck that is built for heavy-duty tasks and can carry a lot of weight. It's often used for work or towing things like trailers.
The speaker mentions driving a Ram truck, which is known for its strong performance and towing capabilities. Ram trucks are popular choices for both work and personal use, offering a blend of utility and comfort.
Jeep
"I have a 2014 Jeep that I use and I have a Ram truck that I also drive."
A Jeep is a type of vehicle that is good for driving on rough roads and trails. The 2014 model is known for being tough and reliable, making it a popular choice for everyday use.
The speaker mentions a 2014 Jeep, which is a versatile SUV known for its off-road capability and rugged design. Jeep vehicles are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and are often used as daily drivers due to their practicality.
Mopar
"But we have everything we have is Mopar, Stellanus, Dodge and Ram and Jeep."
Mopar is a brand that makes parts and accessories for cars like Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. They help keep these vehicles running well and can make them perform better.
Mopar is the parts and service arm of Stellantis, which encompasses brands like Dodge, Jeep, and Ram. It is known for providing performance parts and accessories for these vehicles.
Dodge Ram
"...everything we have is Mopar, Stellanus, Dodge and Ram and Jeep. Yeah."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for work or fun. People like it because it’s strong and comfortable to drive.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck, is a full-size pickup truck that is well-regarded for its towing capacity, ruggedness, and comfort. It has a loyal following among truck enthusiasts and is often discussed for its performance in both work and leisure settings.
Hemi
"I have a brand new Ram 1500 with a Hemi in it. Got a Hemi in it."
Hemi is a type of engine that helps cars run better and faster. It has a special shape that makes it more efficient.
Hemi refers to a type of engine design that features hemispherical combustion chambers, which can improve airflow and efficiency. This design is commonly associated with performance-oriented engines.
Ram 1500
"I have a brand new Ram 1500 with a Hemi in it. Got a Hemi in it."
The Ram 1500 is a large truck that can be used for carrying heavy loads and towing. It's known for being comfortable and having lots of features.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfort, and advanced technology features. It's popular among truck enthusiasts for both work and personal use.
20s
"Again, put a little level kit to bring the front end up two inches than brand new 20s. Okay."
'20s' means the wheels are 20 inches wide. Bigger wheels can make a car look cooler and can help it drive better, but they might make the ride bumpier.
'20s' refers to 20-inch wheels, which are larger than standard wheels. Larger wheels can enhance the vehicle's appearance and performance but may affect ride comfort and handling.
level kit
"Again, put a little level kit to bring the front end up two inches than brand new 20s. Okay."
A level kit is a part that lifts the front of a car higher, making it look more balanced with the back. It also helps fit bigger tires.
A level kit is an aftermarket suspension modification that raises the front of a vehicle to level it with the rear. This is often done to improve the vehicle's stance and accommodate larger tires.
tires
"You know, so I'm going to have to buy some new tires to go with it. You guys do that too. Absolutely. Yes. And do some 20s with about a 33 inch tall tire. Depending on whether you don't like rubber band tires."
Tires are the rubber parts that go on the wheels of a car. They help the car grip the road and are important for safe driving.
Tires are critical components of a vehicle that provide traction, handling, and support for the weight of the car. Choosing the right tires can significantly impact performance, safety, and ride comfort.
Jeep Wrangler
"I was at the Jeep. Was it a Jeep Wrangler or was it a truck? I don't remember, but off roa..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, small SUV that can drive on rough roads and trails. People love it for its ability to go off-road and its classic look.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts and is often discussed for its versatility and iconic status in the automotive world.
three-piece wheels
"Of course, they were three piece, but I don't need that. Just the look is good."
Three-piece wheels are special wheels made of three parts that can be put together. They are often used because you can change their look and fix them easily if they get damaged.
Three-piece wheels are made from three separate components: the outer rim, the inner barrel, and the center section. This design allows for customization and repair, making them popular in the aftermarket scene.
rubbing
"I don't want any rubbing. I don't want to have to do any major modifications yet."
Rubbing happens when your tires are too big and hit parts of your car, like the fenders or suspension. It can cause damage to the tires and make driving less safe.
Rubbing refers to the contact between the tires and the vehicle's body or suspension components, which can occur when larger tires are installed without proper modifications. This can lead to tire damage and affect handling.
Moab
"...He's been to Moab."
Moab is a place in Utah that many people visit to drive their off-road vehicles on special trails. It's known for its beautiful scenery and challenging paths.
Moab is a popular destination in Utah known for its stunning landscapes and off-road trails. It's a favorite spot for Jeep enthusiasts and off-roaders.
Jeep customization
"They don't look like jeeps. They look like they're made to do. They look like they'll hurt you. Well, that's the beauty of the Jeep is you build it for what you do with it."
Jeep customization means changing or adding parts to a Jeep to make it better for off-road driving or to look cooler. People do this based on how they plan to use their Jeep, like climbing rocks or driving on rough trails.
Jeep customization refers to the practice of modifying Jeep vehicles to enhance their off-road capabilities, aesthetics, or performance. Owners often tailor their Jeeps with specific parts and accessories based on their intended use, such as rock crawling or trail driving.
Jeep JK
"But the V six or the four, the V six. And that's when in 2012 when Jeep JK went to that 3.6 finish star, that's when it had enough power."
The Jeep JK is a version of the Jeep Wrangler made between 2007 and 2018. It's designed for off-road driving and is popular for its strong build and performance.
The Jeep JK refers to the fourth generation of the Jeep Wrangler, produced from 2007 to 2018. It is known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
3.6 Pentastar V6
"And that's when in 2012 when Jeep JK went to that 3.6 finish star, that's when it had enough power."
The 3.6 Pentastar V6 is an engine used in many Jeep vehicles starting in 2012. It's known for being powerful and efficient, making the cars it powers perform better.
The 3.6 Pentastar V6 is a 3.6-liter V6 engine developed by Chrysler, known for its balance of power and efficiency. It became a popular choice in various Jeep models starting in 2012, offering improved performance over previous engines.
Cadillac CTS
"I'm going the route of, you know, a Cadillac. Oh, now you're talking. A CTS."
The Cadillac CTS is a comfortable luxury car that has a nice interior and good performance. It's a great option if you want a stylish ride with some sporty features.
The Cadillac CTS is a luxury sedan known for its performance and comfort. It offers a range of powerful engines and a well-appointed interior, making it a popular choice among those seeking a blend of sportiness and luxury.
heated seats
"Heated seats. Yes."
Heated seats are special seats in cars that can warm up, making it more comfortable to sit in when it's cold outside. You can usually change how warm they get.
Heated seats are a comfort feature in many modern vehicles that provide warmth to the seat cushions, enhancing comfort during cold weather. This feature is often adjustable to different heat levels.
tuning
"So do you guys do any engine work? We do if you what kind of engine work? tuning mainly mainly chips air boxes and things like that a little bit air boxes a little bit of exhaust"
Tuning is when you change settings in a car's computer to make it run better or use less fuel. It's like giving your car a performance upgrade.
Tuning refers to the process of modifying a vehicle's engine management system to optimize performance, efficiency, or emissions. This can involve adjusting fuel maps, ignition timing, and other parameters to achieve desired outcomes.
exhaust
"tuning mainly mainly chips air boxes and things like that a little bit air boxes a little bit of exhaust"
The exhaust is the part of a car that takes away the gases produced by the engine. It helps keep the car running clean and quiet.
The exhaust system is responsible for directing exhaust gases away from the engine and reducing harmful emissions. It typically includes components like the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler.
engine swap
"More we probably do more engine swaps really engine swaps putting the himmys in the jeeps"
An engine swap is when you take out the engine that came with a car and put in a different one. People do this to make their cars faster or more reliable.
An engine swap involves replacing a vehicle's original engine with a different one, often to improve performance or reliability. This can include swapping in engines from different makes or models.
LS engine
"I trust you did not say LS... But LS is in jeeps absolutely not"
An LS engine is a type of V8 engine made by General Motors. It's popular among car enthusiasts because it's powerful and can be used in many different cars.
The LS engine is a series of V8 engines produced by General Motors, known for their performance and versatility. They are commonly swapped into various vehicles due to their power and aftermarket support.
Coyote engine
"Yeah, and I like a coyote engine. Yeah, no, let's do that."
The Coyote engine is a powerful V8 engine made by Ford. It's often used in sports cars like the Mustang and is popular for people who want to upgrade their vehicles.
The Coyote engine is a 5.0-liter V8 engine developed by Ford, known for its high performance and efficiency. It is commonly found in the Ford Mustang and F-150, and is popular for engine swaps.
Hellcat
"we've also done hell cats in jeeps. Yeah, you could put a coyote in the Jeep"
The Hellcat is a super-fast version of the Dodge Charger and Challenger cars. It has a very powerful engine that makes it one of the fastest cars on the road.
The Hellcat is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Charger and Challenger, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine. It is known for its extreme power and speed.
stroker engine
"...we're like to do an old stroker engine in them like a GM engine in older jeeps..."
A stroker engine is an engine that has been changed to make it bigger and more powerful. This is done by making the parts that move inside the engine longer, which helps it produce more energy.
A stroker engine is modified to have a longer stroke length, which increases the engine's displacement and power output. This modification can enhance performance, particularly in applications like racing or off-roading.
rock crawlers
"...you see those are some rock crawlers..."
Rock crawlers are vehicles built to drive over rocks and rough ground. They have special parts to help them climb and move easily in tough places.
Rock crawlers are specially modified vehicles designed for off-road driving over rocky and uneven terrain. They often feature enhanced suspension systems, larger tires, and powerful engines to navigate challenging landscapes.
Rivian R1S
"...not going to feel rivian r1s and the rivian r1t recalled 22 to 26 model years..."
The Rivian R1S is a new electric SUV that can go off-road and has a lot of space inside. It's part of the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The Rivian R1S is an all-electric SUV designed for adventure and off-road capability. It features a spacious interior and advanced technology, making it a competitor in the electric vehicle market.
Ford Escape
"...ut having a ford recall without ford recall Ford escape and focus 2013 to 2019 Engine block heater may s..."
The Ford Escape is a small SUV that’s easy to drive and has plenty of room for people and things. It’s a good choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that has been popular for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly features. It is often discussed for its suitability as a family vehicle and its balance between size and capability.
Ford Explorer
"...they see I'm still burning and uh, also the ford explorer and focus so they've expanded it 2019 2016 actual..."
The Ford Explorer is a larger SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families and is often used for road trips or everyday driving.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that has been a staple in the Ford lineup since the early 1990s. It is popular for its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and versatility, making it a common choice for those needing a reliable vehicle for both daily driving and adventures.
Lucid Gravity
"...'ve expanded it 2019 2016 actually to 2024 Lucid gravity 2025 and 26 review camera image may not display ..."
The Lucid Gravity is a new electric SUV that will be very fancy and fast. It’s part of a new wave of cars that run on electricity instead of gas.
The Lucid Gravity is an upcoming electric SUV from Lucid Motors, designed to offer luxury and high performance in the electric vehicle market. It is significant as part of the growing trend towards electric vehicles, aiming to compete with established luxury brands.
Nissan Frontier
"...roperly welded door strikers in the nissan ultima frontier kicks and centra 25 to 26 In chevy blazer e v da..."
The Nissan Frontier is a smaller truck that can handle tough jobs and drive off-road. It’s a good option if you need something strong but don’t want a huge truck.
The Nissan Frontier is a compact pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It is often discussed for its practicality and value, making it a solid choice for those needing a reliable truck for both work and recreation.
Porsche Panamera
"Let's do a 2014 Porsche panamera. Now, this is the this is the this is the uh, the..."
The Porsche Panamera is a fancy car that looks like a sports car but has four doors, so you can fit more people. It's known for being very fast and comfortable to drive.
The Porsche Panamera is a luxury four-door sedan that combines high performance with comfort and practicality. It is significant for its unique blend of sports car performance and everyday usability, making it a popular choice among affluent car enthusiasts.
Pontiac Gto
"Okay, next up in 1969 Pontiac gto judge and I will tell you based on the price. It'..."
The Pontiac GTO is an old-school muscle car that was really popular in the 1960s. It’s known for being fast and powerful, and many people love it for its classic style.
The Pontiac GTO is a classic muscle car that was first introduced in the 1960s and is often credited with starting the muscle car trend in America. Its powerful engine and sporty design make it a significant part of automotive history and a sought-after collector's item.
Chevrolet Ss
"...ver see. Yeah, that's it. All right next up 2014 Chevrolet ss 14 Chevy ss"
The Chevrolet SS is a sporty car that has four doors but can go really fast like a race car. It’s a fun option for people who want something powerful but still practical.
The Chevrolet SS is a performance sedan that combines the practicality of a four-door car with the power of a sports car. It is notable for its V8 engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a blend of performance and everyday usability.
Lucid Air
"...go 21. I'm just guessing I'm just shooting in the air there 21 They've been all over the place. I'm go..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go really far on a single charge. It’s designed to be luxurious and fast, making it a new option for people who want an electric vehicle.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that has gained attention for its impressive range and high-performance capabilities. It represents a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology and is positioned as a competitor to established luxury brands.
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