1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

Hey everyone,
I've recently purchased as '65 GMC 1500, and it's completely stock, except the bondo that's on it. Being the young 24 year old I am, I want to put some upgrades on the truck. But since this is my first project/build I have no idea where to start. An example is I would like to put a new front end on it, and I've heard that an 80's something Malibu front end boles right up? Mainly looking for disk breaks in the front. I'm looking to tap into everyone's experiences and advice to help guide me as to where to look. Also maybe ideas for size and hp that will make it scoot pretty good. Or any other different/ unique ideas you guys have.

Thank you for your time,
nateshrek.

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

The cheapest engine to get would be a 350...small mods can be done to make them perform well....however..if you wanna be more unique and use a less boring engine....believe...everyone and their brotha has a 350...I'd go with a 283 or 327 and do a 4 barrel and headers and HEI....or..just go with a 632...it'll scoot alright! LOL!

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

welcome!

I don't know about the Malibu front end bolting in but I'm pretty sure the front crossmember and suspension from 63-87 GM pickups will fit. 71 and up would be disk brakes. The suspension and crossmember can all come out as a unit to make the swap easier.

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

Welcome to the forum. You can find all the information you could ever want o this site. My suggestion would be to read through a lot of the build threads and to check out the faqs area, also. And always feel free to ask questions.
One more thing, we all like pictures so how about giving us all a look at your truck?

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

welcome
since you said this is your first project i suggest you start small and do mods
that let you keep it on the road . regarding the front suspension the 73-87
crossmember swap is relatively easy. what motor is in it now . don't overlook
modifying what you already have

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

As far as the front end swap, am I just looking for a gmc 1500 late 70's early 80's? Also what all needs to be included with the new swap? As far at the power plant that's in it, its currently a straight six 250. And has my picture showing?

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

Welcome!

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

After doing some research and looking around. My new question in regards to the front end swap is, can I throw a 2500 late 70's early 80's under it with the same process as a 1500 or is that a whole new can of worms?
And I really want to thank everyone for their inputs and comments.

nateshrek

Re: 1965 GMC 1500 modifications
 

I am not sure that it would even fit for sure, but if it did you would be stuck with an 8-lug wheels & larger hubs.....I don't think that it would real desirable on a hot-rod, especially when you are trying to match with the rear tires & wheels, which may be 5 or 6-lug.