67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

72BlckButy · 10-18-2011, 12:30 AM

Looking for any build threads where someone has transferred a 67-72 body to a late model frame.

I know the process is more involved, I'm just curious about the processes that have been used and what worked and what didn't. Spent a little time on the road this weekend and this crossed my mind a time or two, so let's see what you guys have been up too.

Nate

SCOTI · 10-18-2011, 12:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 72BlckButy

Looking for any build threads where someone has transferred a 67-72 body to a late model frame.

I know the process is more involved, I'm just curious about the processes that have been used and what worked and what didn't. Spent a little time on the road this weekend and this crossed my mind a time or two, so let's see what you guys have been up too.

Nate

I just don't see where it's worth the work.

Newer trucks w/all the engineered stuff are designed to work well 'as-is'. Start changing weights & bias around & the engineering is diminished. These old (6x-87) C10's can be brought up to date w/the right parts.

Can you elaborate on what specific improvements crossed your mind during your trip?

72BlckButy · 10-18-2011, 12:54 AM

Hey SCOTI!

Mainly looking at future projects/drivers and was contemplating the idea of being able swap a body on say a 4x chassis that could be used for tow and go, house work, etc. It seems like the original LWBs are in high supply but wasn't sure if any money could be saved through swapping the body vs. transferring the "new to old."

I already have something else in the works, so this would be far in the future. Looking for regular dependability matched with old styling as it could be driven during 100 degree temps or -10 during the winter.

SCOTI · 10-18-2011, 01:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 72BlckButy

Hey SCOTI!

Mainly looking at future projects/drivers and was contemplating the idea of being able swap a body on say a 4x chassis that could be used for tow and go, house work, etc. It seems like the original LWBs are in high supply but wasn't sure if any money could be saved through swapping the body vs. transferring the "new to old."

I already have something else in the works, so this would be far in the future. Looking for regular dependability matched with old styling as it could be driven during 100 degree temps or -10 during the winter.

Gotcha. 4x4's would prob be much easier to do a swap like this as you can incorporate a body lift that overcomes some interference related isues. Hopefully others will chime in w/some ideas/experiences on this subject....

MARKDTN · 10-18-2011, 08:46 AM

There is a project thread on this. I want to do the same thing some time. I want a 69-70 cab on a 2001 up frame and incorporate all the late model stuff (climate control, ABS, etc. but no air bag). There are a lot of differences: the wheelbase is different, the front axle to back of cab dimension is different just for starters. All of this can be overcome, but will take time and effort.

Longhorn Man · 10-18-2011, 11:50 AM

on a 4x4 it can be done by relocating the rear axle forward and then a custom body lift due to the non flat frame of the 73 - 87 trucks. Mudder did his red stepside like this. I know he was talking about a build thread, not sure if he did it or not.

**special-K** · 10-20-2011, 07:00 AM

I know of plenty of 67-72 body swaps onto 73-87 4wd frames. They need the cab & clip lifted,radiator support mounting moved back,and frame horns trimmed due to extra length cowl forward. The front axle ends up sitting forward a bit in the opening A zero-rate spring can set that back to center. Everything else in the drivetrain lines up fine. The only reason I'd do it is because I couldn't come up with a pre-73 4wd. The 73-87s don't have any advances in technology over the 69-72s and with their age,no more reliable.
To go to an 88-up frame would be a headache I'd never consider. I'd sooner take those trucks the way they are. They have nice clean lines and are coming into their own as classics. As far as reliability goes,I'd rather deal with keeping a 40 year old truck running and repaired than deal with most things on the 20 or more year newer trucks. They are at their best untouched and I feel moving/changing everything around to end up with an old body is just asking for trouble and kills the whole simple nature of these trucks.

MARKDTN · 10-20-2011, 07:28 AM

I do enjoy the lines and the simplicity of these trucks. But every day when I get in my DD '01 Tahoe with the smooth ride and hit the power locks and use the climate control and have no air leaks after 220,000+ miles, it makes me want the "best of both worlds". I also like the fuel economy and reliability of the newer stuff. Tahoe has never had a transmission, starter, water pump and the first alternator went 199,000+ miles. I can change the oil every 5000 miles and it's all still there and it's brown not black. You can't say that for anything from the 60s or 70s. I also like a challenge, I want my next project to be a real show of skill that people will say "wow!"; but I also do not want to lose the classic lines. My last several projects have been fuel injection transplants into older cars and trucks. There is always a hassle with tanks and plumbing and similar. I'm thinking this time, why not leave the factory driveline alone and just work on the body. Anyway, just a few thoughts from a different perspective.

BluTrukker · 10-20-2011, 10:48 AM

A lot of fab work, but if you have the time and skill, its not impossible. I have thought about doing this myself. Newer Dmax 4X4, power everything, cool old body. lots of people cut LWB frames to make a SWB, why not cut a newer frame to match what you need. Build brackets and spacers to support the body. Hooking up wiring and climate controls will definitely be a headache though. Anyway, it seems possible in my head.

MARKDTN · 10-20-2011, 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BluTrukker

A lot of fab work, but if you have the time and skill, its not impossible. I have thought about doing this myself. Newer Dmax 4X4, power everything, cool old body. lots of people cut LWB frames to make a SWB, why not cut a newer frame to match what you need. Build brackets and spacers to support the body. Hooking up wiring and climate controls will definitely be a headache though. Anyway, it seems possible in my head.

I want to leave the frame alone because I want to keep the ABS brakes. I am afraid if I change the frame it may change the way the ABS reacts. I am thinking of making it an extended cab to match everything up.

Ackattack · 10-20-2011, 01:45 PM

I think I have already mentioned to you about putting a 67-72 burb body on a 3/4t dodge cummins chasis. Figure I'll have to cut the frame a little, and make some body mounts (that might have to incorporate a body lift) and set the body on it. Won't know for awhile though.

72BlckButy · 10-20-2011, 03:09 PM

Mainly placed this topic out there for discussion and to see what people are up too.

Any links to some build threads?

Ack... I recall you talking about doing a project like that; can't wait to see it.

twistedchevy · 02-19-2015, 03:16 AM

Really old bump

10-18-2011, 12:30 AM	#1
72BlckButy Tot Roddin' Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Mid-MO Posts: 24,461	67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) Looking for any build threads where someone has transferred a 67-72 body to a late model frame. I know the process is more involved, I'm just curious about the processes that have been used and what worked and what didn't. Spent a little time on the road this weekend and this crossed my mind a time or two, so let's see what you guys have been up too. Nate __________________ -Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package)

10-18-2011, 12:54 AM	#3
72BlckButy Tot Roddin' Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Mid-MO Posts: 24,461	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) Hey SCOTI! Mainly looking at future projects/drivers and was contemplating the idea of being able swap a body on say a 4x chassis that could be used for tow and go, house work, etc. It seems like the original LWBs are in high supply but wasn't sure if any money could be saved through swapping the body vs. transferring the "new to old." I already have something else in the works, so this would be far in the future. Looking for regular dependability matched with old styling as it could be driven during 100 degree temps or -10 during the winter. __________________ -Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package)

10-18-2011, 08:46 AM	#5
MARKDTN Registered User Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Chattanooga, TN Posts: 2,131	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) There is a project thread on this. I want to do the same thing some time. I want a 69-70 cab on a 2001 up frame and incorporate all the late model stuff (climate control, ABS, etc. but no air bag). There are a lot of differences: the wheelbase is different, the front axle to back of cab dimension is different just for starters. All of this can be overcome, but will take time and effort. __________________ '83 K20-TPI '73 C10 '79 C10-ex-diesel(SOLD) '07 Tahoe(Son driving) '14 Suburban-DD '71 C10-current project

10-18-2011, 11:50 AM	#6
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) on a 4x4 it can be done by relocating the rear axle forward and then a custom body lift due to the non flat frame of the 73 - 87 trucks. Mudder did his red stepside like this. I know he was talking about a build thread, not sure if he did it or not.

10-20-2011, 07:00 AM	#7
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,863	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) I know of plenty of 67-72 body swaps onto 73-87 4wd frames. They need the cab & clip lifted,radiator support mounting moved back,and frame horns trimmed due to extra length cowl forward. The front axle ends up sitting forward a bit in the opening A zero-rate spring can set that back to center. Everything else in the drivetrain lines up fine. The only reason I'd do it is because I couldn't come up with a pre-73 4wd. The 73-87s don't have any advances in technology over the 69-72s and with their age,no more reliable. To go to an 88-up frame would be a headache I'd never consider. I'd sooner take those trucks the way they are. They have nice clean lines and are coming into their own as classics. As far as reliability goes,I'd rather deal with keeping a 40 year old truck running and repaired than deal with most things on the 20 or more year newer trucks. They are at their best untouched and I feel moving/changing everything around to end up with an old body is just asking for trouble and kills the whole simple nature of these trucks. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

10-20-2011, 07:28 AM	#8
MARKDTN Registered User Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Chattanooga, TN Posts: 2,131	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) I do enjoy the lines and the simplicity of these trucks. But every day when I get in my DD '01 Tahoe with the smooth ride and hit the power locks and use the climate control and have no air leaks after 220,000+ miles, it makes me want the "best of both worlds". I also like the fuel economy and reliability of the newer stuff. Tahoe has never had a transmission, starter, water pump and the first alternator went 199,000+ miles. I can change the oil every 5000 miles and it's all still there and it's brown not black. You can't say that for anything from the 60s or 70s. I also like a challenge, I want my next project to be a real show of skill that people will say "wow!"; but I also do not want to lose the classic lines. My last several projects have been fuel injection transplants into older cars and trucks. There is always a hassle with tanks and plumbing and similar. I'm thinking this time, why not leave the factory driveline alone and just work on the body. Anyway, just a few thoughts from a different perspective. __________________ '83 K20-TPI '73 C10 '79 C10-ex-diesel(SOLD) '07 Tahoe(Son driving) '14 Suburban-DD '71 C10-current project

10-20-2011, 10:48 AM	#9
BluTrukker BOHICA Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Stewartville, MN Posts: 440	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) A lot of fab work, but if you have the time and skill, its not impossible. I have thought about doing this myself. Newer Dmax 4X4, power everything, cool old body. lots of people cut LWB frames to make a SWB, why not cut a newer frame to match what you need. Build brackets and spacers to support the body. Hooking up wiring and climate controls will definitely be a headache though. Anyway, it seems possible in my head. __________________ Trying to save someone from their own stupidity is like teaching a pig to dance. It is a waste of your time, and it annoys the pig!

10-20-2011, 01:45 PM	#11
Ackattack Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Valley Center KS Posts: 3,525	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) I think I have already mentioned to you about putting a 67-72 burb body on a 3/4t dodge cummins chasis. Figure I'll have to cut the frame a little, and make some body mounts (that might have to incorporate a body lift) and set the body on it. Won't know for awhile though. __________________ Project Bruiser: 68 Pro-Touring C-10 5.3L / 4L60E Project Ironhide: 97 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 Cummins SOLD: '69 GMC 1/2T SWB TBI'd: Project No Buck Assembly Manual Index Sign up Thread!!! Factory Service Manual Index

10-20-2011, 03:09 PM	#12
72BlckButy Tot Roddin' Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Mid-MO Posts: 24,461	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) Mainly placed this topic out there for discussion and to see what people are up too. Any links to some build threads? Ack... I recall you talking about doing a project like that; can't wait to see it. __________________ -Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package)

02-19-2015, 03:16 AM	#13
twistedchevy Registered User Join Date: Jan 2015 Location: napa, ca Posts: 249	Re: 67-72 on a Late Model Frame (73+, 88+, etc.) Really old bump __________________ Mine: 72 c20 Chevy suburban, 02 5.3 w/4l60e , factory ac and 50gal tank. 70 k10 Chevy burb, 04 5.3 w/4l60e np241, with dual 30gal saddle tanks and rear 30 gal tank Dads: 67 c10 step side(project) 72 c10 GMC burb 350/400, with 67 Chevy front clip(grocery getter) Ours: 67 c30 tow truck 70 c10 long bed 383stroker w/digital gauges(work truck)



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