1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

I'm considering trading my 98 Z71 for an 89 CC dually 454/T400. I've never had a one ton truck so are there any one ton specific issues to look out for?

I've had my 78 for many years so I'm well aware of the normal squarebody issues, and places they rust.

Thanks for any advice you can give.

An before anyone asks, no I dont really have any specific need for a dually. I would like the crew cab over my ext cab since I have 3 kids but its not really a necessity. Yes I will "ruin" the dually with a mild lowering and if I ever can afford them a set of semi rims. I will then proceed to drive the tires off it. Its just something I've wanted for a while and happened to see this guy offering to trade on criagslist.

Paul

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Only issues really are the heaviness of the parts! When you do rear brakes you'll need to pack a lunch, but the rest will be strangely familiar. Don't listen to anyone that offers opinions of what you should do to your truck unless they are buying! Good luck!

Jeff

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Might want to consider changing to an overdrive transmission for better fuel mileage.

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Don't think this is a fuel mileage play, is it?

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Not really worried about mileage, my 98 is lifted on 305/70 mud tires so it's no fuel sipper itself. I know this one will be rough with no overdrive, with the tbi would it get double digits?

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Rear brakes are a PITA vs 1/2 ton trucks. Not really different, just more difficult.
OD would be a very good idea. Mine was in the 8mpg range w/o it using the same TBI-454-th400 combo w/235-85-16's (31.5") tires.
Very poor turning radius @ stock height that will only get worse when lowered.
There's a bunch-o-weight @ the 4 corners that will only be amplified w/large semi wheels + required adapters.
It's fairly easy to get any corner shop or out of town joint to service dually wheels w/rated tires. Getting semi wheels w/non-rated tires serviced is prob going to be an issue @ many reputable shops so something to keep in mind when venturing any distance.

As said on here many times before, lowering doesn't impact towing/cargo capacity if you plan accordingly & spend money where necessary. The semi wheels w/LT tires will limit the capacity. That simply requires honoring those limitations....

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

I recently put semi wheels on my 89 dually and it rides way nicer . and the rims with the tires are much lighter . Since you are gonna use it for fun , towing shouldn't be an issue . With 4 tires in the back you should still have about 8000lb capacity. here is what mines looks like its a work in progress. also with the larger rims and tires I think the rearend gear ratio should be way under 4:11 which does lower rpm.

Attachment 1309849

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

What size tires?
What was the weight of 1 wheel/tire + adapter?

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

I did not weigh the rims and tires , but the adapters are heavy it will probably be a little more than a regular wheel and tire setup , but I have no regrets if I were to lower it I would only lower the back a little

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

tires are 305/35/24 . I use reg tires I had the wheels cut to fit them

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

I also just had the thought that my 78 is getting a nv3500 soon. That would free up my 700R4 an I could put it in this truck if I get it. I know it wouldn't be ideal if I was using the truck to its capacity but I think for my use it would work ok. It's not a stock transmission either so I believe I could make it live behind a 454....

Re: 1 ton/dually guys need info!
 

Looks good man.