sweet 80s custom short bed!

[LT7A]

Cool find. Totally get the dilemma. It's all opinions on this one so I'll throw in mine. There's a difference between nodding to the 80s and bowing to them. I think you can keep the 80s flavor but integrate it a bit. The 80s details are kinda choppy as they sit. I think what you've done so far is a big improvement. I'm not a huge fan of those body kits but it and the stripes go hand in hand. If you could find the front air dam you would be golden! Think A-team van and the Indy 500 support trucks (Indy Hauler, can Google). From there, I would pull the stainless trim at the fenders and rain gutters. Let the red flow. You could then drop it 2 to 3 inches to make that body kit come alive in the low and wide stance. 8 inch ralleys could fill the bill from there. I do think the Cuisinart wheels deserve a respectful retirement. I got other ideas on the wheels too. PM if you want, won't gum up the thread by making a list. I agree with you that the tube grill fits the era. I think if you got the smooth headlight bezels, without the horizontal band that sticks out, that would help. Knock down the shine on the grill with scotchbrite (brushed look) and it'll all come together. Same treatment beneath the doors on the shiny step strips.

No denying its heritage but not quite so blatant ;-)