At the SEMA Show, Tino Garza of Maxwell Customs showcased a beautifully refreshed 1976 Chevy K5 Blazer, a build that strikes the perfect balance between originality and modern performance. The goal was simple: keep the classic look, but upgrade the systems that matter most for drivability, safety, and reliability.
To pull this off, Maxwell Customs teamed up with Precision for all-new weatherstripping and seals, restoring the truck’s factory-style fit and finish. For power and handling, they modernized the suspension, engine, wheels, and tires—all while preserving the original Chevy paint scheme.
But one of the biggest transformations came from the truck’s braking system, thanks to a series of upgrades from Classic Performance Products (CPP).
CPP Upgrades Installed
These two upgrades dramatically changed how the K5 drives—especially when it comes to confidence, pedal feel, and stopping power.
Builder Feedback: Why CPP Made the Difference:
Tino noted that this was his first time using CPP’s HydraStop system, and the experience exceeded expectations:
- Surprisingly easy installation, plumbing the system was straightforward, with everything fitting exactly as intended.
- An immediate performance boost, once the brake pedal was pressed for the first time, any skepticism disappeared. The truck stopped far better than expected.
He had similar praise for the CPP Big Brake Kit:
- Arrived pre-assembled, making the install fast and painless.
- Replacing the factory spindle assembly was as simple as removing three bolts, installing the new CPP setup, and hooking up the brake line.
- Fit and finish were flawless, including the polished master cylinder and clean hardware.
- No issues with mounting, plumbing, or alignment.
Final Takeaway
Maxwell Customs walked away impressed with how seamlessly CPP parts integrated into their K5 Blazer build. The combination of modern stopping power, easy installation, and high-quality craftsmanship made CPP an essential part of their SEMA-ready restoration.
Whether you're rebuilding a classic K-series truck or upgrading your daily cruiser, CPP’s braking components deliver modern performance with classic style, just like this standout ’76 Blazer.


