Driveline question
 

It may be a stupid question, but would a drive line from a 73-87 GM pickup work in my '65? Of course I would assume the vehicles would have to be similar (LWB, 3 speed auto trans, etc). Since the 73-87 trucks are fairly plentiful in the junkyards around here, and a driveline could be had for fairly cheap, I figured I would ask if anyone knew if they would work. Thanks guys.

Re: Driveline question
 

Everything will work, the only thing is that the rear end is wider. Its 1.5 inches wider i think, i'm sure someone will know the width for sure.

Re: Driveline question
 

If your 65 has rear coil springs, you will have to weld brackets for the trailing arms and panhard bar onto the later axle housing. I am not certain if the driveshaft will be the correct length without actually measuring it.

Ray

Re: Driveline question
 

I will be keeping the stock rear end that came in my '65, just beefing it up a bit with stronger internals and a set of replacement axles. My truck just didn't come with a driveline, so I am just looking to see if anyone knows off-hand if the 73-87 drive lines will work.

Re: Driveline question
 

The motor and trans will bolt right in. My 66 has a 350/350 out of an 86 c-10 in it now.

Re: Driveline question
 

I picked up a 1980 C-10 as a parts truck and it has a running (Oldsmobile) 350/350 in it that will be used. Unfortunately it is a SWB so the search continues for a drive shaft.

Re: Driveline question
 

Would you know if that truck originally had an Olds diesel? It is in the right year range, and the Olds gas engine swaps were fairly common because the diesel engines had quite a few problems. Also, once you get it apart, would you please post a pic of the frame brackets for the engine mounts? I am just trying to find out if they are different from the normal Chevy frame brackets. The brackets that bolt to the block are almost certainly an Olds-only part.

Ray

Re: Driveline question
 

I didn't even think about the truck possibly being a deisel, sure would explain the olds engine though. I will do my best to remember to take those pictures for you. It is probably going to be a couple weeks before I get the time to go pull the motor out, but if I get 'em I will shoot them your way.

Re: Driveline question
 

Thanks. I sure appreciate it.

Ray