1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

I have this 1980 SWB I was planning to use the parts (frame, fuel tanks, rear end) under my 86 LWB to convert it (long beds suck!) but I'm not sure on the frame. It has what appears to be damage although it could have been made this way. Hopefully you guys can help.
Does this look like factory or accident damage?
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5426c6fd.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps315b882e.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps0227cf33.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...psd04f4061.jpg
That is all on the drivers side next to the fuel tank.

This is pass side ahead of fuel tank..
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...pse94f083f.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...psf86958c0.jpg

And this is top of frame where it kicks up for rear wheels.. (yes thats the factory paint!)
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps5ace1755.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps75ec219b.jpg

http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...ps13f933b6.jpg

What do you guys think?

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

The top of the rail looks factory to me.

The bottom areas look like damage from jacking the vehicle up off the flange of the frame.

My $0.01 -

K

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

My 81 looks identical to yours
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Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

Really, hmmm...seems like i remember hearing something about GM putting a bend or something in these frames to make it easier/faster for assembly line workers to get the trans crossmember into the frame. But this crossmember goes under the frame, not between the rails
so that don't make sence.
You guys ever hear anything like that?
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Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

Maybe.

That would be a semi regular occurance; there can also be strange formations to clear catalytic converters or other exhaust components, clearance for tools in the forming dies or assembly tooling, but I don't think that's what we are seeing here.

K

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

I'll take a look at my '87 the next time I'm out in the garage.

K

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

Yeah the bottom of the frame looks like a jack used wrong or something hit it,The top that is normal you have to remember these are mass production trucks some parts no one sees can have waves from stamping.Its not just gm i have seen fords and dodges have waves in stamp sheet pieces before.

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

Thanks for the info. Its mostly the lower part by the drivers fuel tank i am worried about. Would take alot of force, imo, to bend it like that.

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

On close inspection tonight I find the right spring hanger has 2 bolts in place of the factory rivets and again on the rear crossmember, one of the rivets has been replaced with a bolt and nut.
Could these have been installed at the factory when new?
Or is this a sign of some serious hanky panky?

http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...3428795474.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...72057CB26B.jpg
http://i1269.photobucket.com/albums/...7208A13F0C.jpg

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

A 3/8" bolt and nut is the factory repair for a mis-hit rivet. Looks like someone was a little "off" that day.

I tried to get them to use all bolts (instead of rivets) on the spring hangers when my truck was built but was unsuccessful... :(

K

Re: 1980 SWB Frame Questions
 

Was that a pretty common occurrence? (having an off day and missing rivets)

Do they still use rivets in new(er) truck frame construction?