THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS

Pushing the Limits of the Colorado Platform

- WORDS BY DEVAN ENCE

If you've ever seen a bright yellow Chevrolet Colorado crawling over rock ledges with a genuine school bus stop sign swinging out, chances are it belongs to Philip Laba. His 2018 Colorado Z71, affectionately known as The Magic School Bus, is far from your average mid-size pickup. What started as a simple way to haul mountain bikes has evolved over seven years into a full-fledged adventure rig capable of camping, crawling, and tackling thousands of miles of backcountry road.

Philip's approach wasn't one of instant gratification. As a college student and engineering mind, he approached each modification with research and restraint, balancing capability with budget. The current result? Over $41,000 invested in modifications, and a truck that's still evolving.

At the heart of the build is the factory 3.6L V-6, tuned with a Trifecta Advantage+ flash to squeeze out a bit more power. The drivetrain remains mostly OEM, with the exception of an Adams custom rear driveshaft with a Spicer 1350 snap-fit U-joint. The factory locking differentials and 4.10 gearing, borrowed from the ZR2 platform, keep it planted in low-traction conditions.

Suspension-wise, the Colorado runs King 2.5-inch coilovers with compression adjusters up front, paired with 600-lb springs. The rear is supported by Deaver M66 Expedition Pack leaf springs and matched King shocks. The suspension swap includes ZR2 coilovers and a full ZR2 component integration. Dirt King limit straps and locking alignment pins round out the front, while a custom rear limit strap bracket fabricated by Weapons Grade Fabrication keeps the suspension secure.