1.5/2 ton build
 

I am wanting to build a late 40s early 50s 1.5 or 2 ton to pull a tandem wheel, tandem axle 22 foot trailer around. Need advice.

Thinking about a Cummins diesel or a 427/454 big block for a power plant with a manual transmission.

Would I be better off to buy a new model truck and put an old body on or buy the old truck and graft in the newer stuffto make her highway worthy.

Anybody out her tried this before????

Re: 1.5/2 ton build
 

If it was me and had the money I would go new model truck and put the old body on if it would fit.

Re: 1.5/2 ton build
 

As he said if he had the money! If you want the cheap way, add the new equipment to the old truck, otherwise add the old cab to the new truck. The new truck has the advantage of disk brakes! The older trucks had to use drums. cost per mile you will LOVE disks! I haven't tried the cat, or the big duramax in the newer trucks, but let me tell you the tbi 427 with 5 & 2 in the 91 model Topkick is SWEET! I'm coming up on 16000 hours and it still purrs! This is a daily use truck and it hauls a minimum of 4 ton per load and weighs 20320 empty and it will still accelerate with cars in traffic. If hydrogen fuel ever makes it here, the diesels are out of a job! oh and btw, it only uses 13 gallons per load. A ford gas truck running the same route was around 35 gallons per load!

Re: 1.5/2 ton build
 

my 54' is going on a newer motorhome frame that is fwd. just waiting for the paperwork to arrive this week before we turn a wrench. should be a fun project.