Gray Ghost: A ‘57 Chevy 3100 Reborn with Modern Flair

• January 8, 2025
• Story By
  Kevin Aguilar

The best truck finds often require an extensive search to find the perfect project. These hidden gems are exclusively talked about in secret, just whispers amongst the gearhead community. Kirk Sannella of GTS Toys was given a lucky tip that led to his hunt for a ride to share with his wife. Kirk spotted a ‘57 Chevy 3100 that would soon become his pride and joy.

A Foundation for Excellence

Kirk gave his ‘57 Chevy 3100 the moniker, "Fantasma Gris" (which means gray ghost in Spanish). The name stemmed from how this classic Chevy was taken from the ashes and was given a new life. The essence of Kirk’s truck now comes from a custom Total Cost Involved chassis, engineered to handle like a gearhead's dream with a smooth ride that feels like hovering over clouds.

Kirk’s truck has a sophisticated airbag suspension system, controlled by an AirLift management system, so the ride height can be adjusted on a whim. The upgraded foundation gives this truck the ability to float over bumps & hug the road like a race car—all at the touch of a button. The stopping power of the ride halts like no other with Wildwood 13-inch rotors and stainless braided brake lines that ensure this phantom beast can reign in it's power with unmatched precision.

Modern Muscle

Under the hood of Kirk’s Fantasma Gris is an abundant amount of bespoke features. There is a powerful LS2 engine backed by a 4L60E transmission connected to a Currie 9-inch rear end. This is a modern setup known for its reliability and raw power. Giving it a touch of class is a set of Billet Specialties valve covers and a Holley high-rise intake, which it gives the engine the air it needs to deliver pure performance. The truck also has a set of Hooker manifolds and tig welded stainless exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers. The engine is kept satisfied by a Boyd Welding fuel tank with a Holley pump, which is secured under the rear of the bed.

Stunning Exterior

Setting this truck apart from the rest is a number of custom fabbed elements. This includes the shaved rain gutters to give it a sleek, seamless look, while the custom Lokar handles replace the traditional door handles for a modern touch. The front end of the truck is a work of art with deleted turn signals, which are now integrated into the modern United Pacific LED headlights. The modified grille, with its mesh center and modified ’57 Bel Air center bar, adds a touch of swag that's sure to catch everyone’s eye.

On the back end of the Fantasma Gris, the tailgate chains and stake pockets were deleted, while a roll pan was molded in for a clean appearance. The Bedwood & Parts bed floor with flat strips were added to give more flair. Moving further, LED vintage Ford taillights were added for their sleek style. Refreshing the sheet metal is a coating of Porsche Agate paint laid down by Customs by Lopez to make the Fantasma Gris hauntingly stunning.

Wheels That Turn Heads

Going deeper into this phantom beast is a staggered set of 20x9 and 22x11 Budnik Tungsten billet wheels. These wheels fit the aesthetic of the truck's overall design, by adding a modern edge without losing its classic charm. They are wrapped in Nitto INVO tires that deliver incredible grip and perform well both gliding down the highway or tearing up the streets.

A Luxurious Interior

With a look inside the cab of the Fantasma Gris, you will be transported into a world of luxury and comfort. A state-of-the-art climate control system from Restomod Air keeps things cool, no matter how hot it gets outside. The dashboard is a modern masterpiece, with Dakota Digital instrumentation that blends modern tech with classic style. The interior is wrapped in a custom red leather, handcrafted by Sew Cal Rods & Upholstery. This phantom beast is not just eye candy — it is incredibly comfortable too. And to top it off, a Kicker custom stereo system delivers crystal-clear sound, making every ride a melodic adventure.

A Labor of Love

The Fantasma Gris isn't just a restomod, it is Kirk’s rolling magna opus that was discovered by a lucky tip from within the gearhead community. This Chevy truck like a ghost transformed from the great beyond and is a testament to Kirk’s love of Chevy trucks. It reaffirms that with the right touch a truck on the brink of death can be restored, reimagined, and modernized into something as hauntingly beautiful as the Fantasma Gris.

Hard Facts