Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

Hello all I am so confused i am building a 59 Apache 31 stepside and need the best donor car to do a chassis swap not look to hot rod with as little if any major moding any suggestions?

Re: Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

Why not just go with an aftermarket independent front suspension kit? Many of them are bolt on or close to it. I've never seen the reason people do frame swaps or the camaro/nova subframes. The end result always looks half engineered and many people would never consider buying somthing that has been modified in such a way.

Yeah the up front cost is more, but the end result is worth it. In my opinion anyway.

If you are just wanting to get the front lower you could use a dropped front axle and they make disc brake conversions for the stock front susp. as well.

Re: Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

Thanks for the info Doug I have no intention of lowering it, so they have bolt on kits any site suggestions

Also can I use the engine 5.7, power steering, and transmission from an 88 1500 ya think or do you have other suggestions

Thanks

Bob

Re: Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

There are all sorts or reasons to do the swap. Mine was because my original frame was bent. I am using a 1980 SWB Chevy 1/2 frame and like the idea of power brakes, steering, A-frame and the ability to order OEM parts now and down the road. It should also make a very driveable truck.

There are a ton of posts on this subject and you should spend some time searching and exploring the options. Then get your tape measure out and start measuring things for yourself.

If I would have known before I got as far as along as I am I might have considered e-zchassisswaps.com kits.

One kit uses the 77-90 Caprice frame and the other the 73-87 Chevy pickup frame with prices at $1495 and $795, respectively.

There are also, as I now know, many aftermarket front end kits that basically bolt or weld to your original frames and can make a very driveable truck.

There is also a strong case to be made to keep it original but the choice is all yours.

Good luck.

56hotrodred

Re: Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

The search feature can be your friend on this subject. There are many threads that discuss the various ways to upgrade the chassis for the 55-59 trucks.
The stock frame would be the best option in my opinion. There are many options available to upgrade the ride and handling of these trucks. Swapping to a car frame is not one of them. It would be more work to do that.

Re: Best Donner choice for a 59 Apache build
 

This site Rocks the people are great!! Thanks all.