CHEVY 1500
The Chevy 1500 is a versatile option for those looking for a dependable daily driver that can also handle light-duty work. Looking to take that versatility to the next level? Big Dog Builds can bring your dream Chevy to life with tailored, expert customisations from the American truck specialists.
Big Dog Builds Rating System
Build Type
Towing
Looks
Interior
Driveline / Performance
Off Road Capability
Modification Ability
Towing Class
Build Type
Towing
Looks
Interior
Driveline / Performance
Off Road Capability
Modification Ability
Towing Class
![Chevy Silverado 1500 LTZ — 4.2‑t SSM pre‑reg GVM upgrade, still 4.5‑t towing.
Full Big Dog Builds walk‑around: BDS 3.5" lift with FOX 2.5s, Method 305 NV wheels, 35" Nitto Ridge Grapplers, Outback Kitters prototype bar, GME UHF, Boss triple‑bellow airbags + Air IQ, wiring and towing setup.
Chapters
00:00 Why 4.2‑t pre‑registration SSM GVM on a 1500 (nationwide compliance + retains 4.5‑t tow)
01:03 Interstate process: dealer → Big Dog Builds → registered (fly‑in, drive‑away)
01:46 Wheels & tyres: Method 305 NV (18x9 0), Double Black + 35x12.5R18 Ridge Grapplers
03:12 Suspension: BDS 3.5" kit, BDS UCAs, FOX 2.5 remote‑reservoir coilovers (adjustable)
03:57 LTZ vs ZR2 lift note (how the 3.5" applies)
04:42 Prototype front bar (Outback Kitters): integrated LEDs + 15,000‑lb winch cradle
05:35 R&D tweaks, colour‑coded bar & flares planned
06:33 UHF setup: bonnet‑mount bracket + GME XRS handpiece control
07:17 Rear end: leaf options + Boss triple‑bellow airbags (Schrader valves + Air IQ)
08:26 Air IQ presets, remote/app control & linking bags
09:16 “Airbags as helpers” (correct spring/shock first) + FOX 2.5 rears; 2500 vs 1500 towing use case
10:01 Towing electrics: red Anderson (solar in), grey Anderson (van DC‑DC while running)
10:45 What’s next: flares, rack, Switch‑Pros, lighting + why we do pre‑reg through BDB
Build highlights
✅ SSM 4.2‑t pre‑reg GVM upgrade on Silverado 1500 LTZ (federal compliance pathway; retains factory 4.5‑t braked towing rating in AU).
✅ Suspension: BDS 3.5" system with FOX 2.5 remote‑reservoir front coilovers + adjustable rears; BDS UCAs.
✅ Wheels/Tyres: Method 305 NV Double Black, 18x9 0; Nitto Ridge Grappler 35x12.5R18.
✅ Protection & recovery: Outback Kitters prototype alloy bar with signature LEDs, hoop lighting, forward‑facing fairlead, winch‑ready (15,000 lb).
✅ Comms: GME XRS UHF with 640 mm / 6.6 dBi antenna on bonnet mount (spring base).
✅ Load support: Boss triple‑bellow airbags + Air IQ wireless control (cab remote + iOS/Android), 7 presets, link/unlink bags.
✅ Towing electrics: 12‑pin, Red Anderson (solar blanket feed with reg) to front battery; Grey Anderson (van DC‑DC output while engine running).
Why pre‑registration SSM for GVM?
Pre‑reg SSM is done before first supply to market so the vehicle goes onto the RAV as modified—giving a nationally recognised compliance pathway. That helps with interstate registration later and avoids re‑engineering when moving states. Always confirm state requirements for accessories (tow setup, tyres, lighting, etc.). (General guidance; not legal advice.)
Interstate? We’ve got you.
Can’t bring the vehicle yourself? We can arrange national transport to our Queensland workshop, complete the build, handover, and recommend staying locally a couple of nights for the final check‑over before you hit the highway.
Who this setup suits
Tourers who want a refined 1500 as a weekend warrior with occasional caravan/boat towing—plus on‑road comfort and off‑road capability.
Gear list & mentions
@OutbackKitters @GMSpecialtyVehicles @MethodRaceWheels @NittoTire @GMEAustralia
Work with Big Dog Builds
📍 Queensland, Australia
🛠️ Pre‑reg and post‑reg GVM kits for Chevy 1500, RAM, Ford F‑150, Toyota Tundra.
📞 Bookings & enquiries: [add your phone/email/link here]
🗓️ Ask about dealer‑to‑BDB direct delivery (pre‑reg) and interstate transport options.
#Chevy1500 #Silverado1500 #GVMUpgrade #SSM #BigDogBuilds #4x4Australia #MethodRaceWheels #NittoRidgeGrappler #OutbackKitters #FoxShox](https://bigdogbuilds.com/wp-content/plugins/youtube-feed-pro/img/placeholder.png)