1959 GMC Fleet - 2wd to 4wd

[dennislbrooks]

I looked up some conversion post but I did not find anything specific for what I am using. Maybe missed it.

I just put external frame GM power steering (73) using a full size car type pitman arm on my 59 GMC. No complaints, all is well and has disc brakes as well. I now want to convert this truck to 4wd. I had changed the pitman arm sector shaft from 4wd to 2wd. Switching back is not a problem.

The truck will have the minimum 4 inch lift as dictated by changing to the Dana 44 front axle.

1) Can I use the stock 75 4wd pitman arm?

2) Can I use the stock 75 4wd draglink?

3) I know I will be mating 2.5 inch perches to 2 inch spring leafs -- know whats needed - have done before.

If it can be used, the 2wd full size car pitman arm would require enlarging the drag link ball taper hole.

The rest of the conversion would be somewhat straight forward as have done it before on my 67.

I will change from manual to a 700R4 with a np208, raise back 4 inches, other, and adjust driveshafts as necessary. Rear axle has already been changed to a 12 bolt.

Any wisdom/help is appreciated.