Rolling in Style: Installing the A-Team Wheels

One of the most defining features of the A-Team van is its unmistakable red wheels, and we weren’t about to skip this crucial detail. Swapping out the old wheels for the iconic red set wasn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. We also had to fit beefier tires to give the van a more aggressive stance.

To make it all work, we installed wheel spacers to ensure proper fitment. Now, with the new wheels locked in place, the van is already starting to look the part.

Debadging of Honor: Removing the Old Emblems

Debadging should have been a simple process—until we realized the factory emblems weren’t just stuck on; they were bolted in from the worst possible spots. What we thought would be a quick job turned into an exercise in patience as we had to reach deep into tight, awkward spaces just to get to the bolts.

 After some problem-solving (and a few choice words), the badges are finally off, leaving us with a clean slate for the next stage of the build.

Lighting the Way: Installing the New Tail Lights

Choosing the right tail lights was tougher than we expected. We debated between a few styles, but ultimately went with the one on the left side of the photo—it just had the right vintage vibe to match the A-Team aesthetic. To give it a modern twist, we’re also doing an LED conversion for brighter, more efficient lighting.

But we didn’t stop there. The trim around the lights got a fresh coat of black paint to tie in with the van’s bold, aggressive look. Installing the lights wasn’t just a simple swap—we had to make some adjustments to get everything to fit perfectly. The end result? A perfect blend of classic style and modern functionality.

Stripping It Down: Removing the Trim

To truly bring this van to life, we needed to overhaul the interior. That meant gutting all the existing trim to prep for a fresh coat of grey paint—just like the original A-Team van.

Ripping out the panels was straightforward in some spots, but others put up a fight. With the interior stripped down, the van is ready for the next phase: transforming the inside into a clean, retro-styled command center.

Prepping for Perfection: Priming the Interior and Exterior

Before any paint could hit the surfaces, we had to tackle one of the most important steps—priming. This process ensures that the paint adheres properly and lasts for the long haul. We didn’t cut corners here; the van’s interior and exterior got the full treatment.

The interior has been completely stripped down, making it easier to prime every surface in preparation for a sleek grey finish. On the exterior, special attention went to the front grille, which we’ve prepped to be fully blacked out for that aggressive, tactical look. Priming may not be the flashiest part of the project, but it’s the foundation for a flawless finish.