Salvage Ram 1500 Classic Warlock Rebuilt for $400 by vTuned Garage

The Ram 1500 Classic Warlock is known for its rugged style and capable performance for a cheap price, but even tough trucks can face serious damage. The team at vTuned Garage, a popular YouTube channel, recently took on the challenge of restoring a heavily damaged Ram 1500 Classic Warlock Crew Cab 4×4. Despite its battered appearance, this salvage pickup was revived with just $400 in repairs, making it a drivable truck once again.

A Truck with Strange Damage – 

Purchased at an auction for $3,850, the Warlock came with a salvage title and 81,022 miles on the odometer. The front driver’s side had taken a serious hit, ripping off the wheel, suspension, control arms, and part of the fender. The damage extended to the load bed on the same side, which was bent inward. Oddly, the passenger side and airbags were completely untouched.

The Warlock’s 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 was intact, delivering its standard 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. With a capable four-wheel-drive system, the truck still held promise despite its visible issues.

Warlock Style with a Salvage Twist – 

This Ram 1500 Classic Warlock trim is known for its aggressive appearance. It features a blacked-out grille, unique graphics, and 20-inch semi-gloss black aluminum wheels. It also includes tow hooks, front and rear powder-coated bumpers, and a factory one-inch lift—all of which survived the accident, further enticing Ben, the lead builder at vTuned Garage, to take on the project.

The rebuilding process started with a detailed inspection. Using a forklift, Ben lifted the truck to identify the extent of the damage and begin repairs. The mangled fender, bumper, and suspension components were removed, revealing a bent frame that needed straightening. Ben utilized a frame machine to restore alignment, ensuring the truck’s structural integrity.

A key challenge was replacing the severely deformed bed. Fortunately, Ben sourced a bed from a fourth-generation Ram 1500 Rebel (the truck on which the Warlock is based), which fit after minor adjustments. The replacement bed, however, came in a different metallic shade, so it required repainting in metallic black to match the truck.

Cost-Saving Measures – 

One of the highlights of the rebuild was Ben’s ability to save costs by using parts from other Ram trucks he had previously dismantled. With much of the work done in-house, he only needed to spend about $400 on additional parts such as bolts, paint, and a replacement bumper.

Within just 24 hours, the truck was back on its wheels and ready for its first test drive. While minor issues remain, such as a cracked windshield and a worn steering wheel, the Warlock is now drivable and structurally sound. Ben reported that the truck drove straight during the test drive, with smooth handling and functional features.

For enthusiasts, this rebuild is a great example of how a salvage vehicle can be fixed with creativity, skill, and minimal investment.