1/2 Ton to 1 Ton
 

I have a 85 :gmc: Suburban, 6.2L Diesel with a 6" Suspention lift setting on 35" tires. I will be returning from serving overseas (saved a few $) and want to do a total rebuild on the burban. It is a daily driver and I am looking for any info or help on the following:

1. Switch from 1/2 ton to 1 Ton axle's
2. Switch from a 6" lift to a 10" lift (springs only no blocks)
3. Swap out the 85 grill and core suport for a 91 front-end
4. Swap out from 35" to 38" tires (brand recommended for on/off road)
5. Add a Banks turbo pack

I am trying to avoid any body lifts and I know once I go up to 1 Ton axle's I will have to move up from a 15" wheel to atleast a 16.5". Has any one had any experiance doing any of this and if so could they give me some pointers on "what to do" and "what not to do"? Any and all info will be greatly appreciated!:flag:

Thanks,

Ryan

Here is the way she was sitting when I left to come overseas 3 years ago. This is with a 6" lift (springs) and a set of 35" tires. As you can see she needs alittle body work but I have managed to take pretty good care of the truck. Replaced a couple of windshields, a rear axle and the front end / right fender / hood after hitting a deer doing about 60mph:whine: . I think the lift kit saved the truck :) because if it had been stock height I think it would have totaled it. I am also looking for a roof rack, any sugestions?:gmc:

*Notice the Bow-Tie grill, thats all the parts place had so If you look at it from the front it has the Bow-Tie and if you look at the tail gate, you see GMC

try this
 

Try going towww.coloradok5.com . They have articles on all of your questions except the turbo.
You could do a shackle flip on the back to lift it the additional 4" and only need to buy new front springs and shocks.

Also, it is possible to run 15" wheels on 1 ton axles if you grind the front calipers. Check out the article on coloradok5. I would recomend running 15" wheels because you have more choices for tires and they have the safety bead. This will help prevent popped beads if you use your truck offoad much. I have 16.5" wheels and have popped tires off the bead offroad numerous times.

There are other cool ideas on about disc brakes for a 14 bolt rear axle.

They even have an article about your frontend swap!!!! www.coloradok5.com