64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

Hi everyone, I have a 64 C-20 that I want to bag and lay frame with, but I also want to tow my 26 foot enclosed trailer (5000 lbs) with it. The thing is I bought it for $500 and the body (it is rough and will be left that way, I prefer calling it Vintage) had been put on a 73-87 3/4 ton 2wd frame. Which does not fit very well by the way. I also have a 85 half ton 2wd frame. Can the 3/4 ton frame be bagged the same as a 1/2 ton?
Items I have available for build.
1. 73-87 3/4 ton frame with 14 bolt not sure on ratio
2. 85 1/2 ton frame with 12 bolt not sure on ratio 5 lug pattern
3. 1968 Cadillac 472 with its Turbo 400
4. 1967 350 and 350 Turbo or Saginaw 4 speed
5. 1978 350 and 350 Turbo
6. 1978 12 bolt with 6 lug wheel pattern and 3:08 ratio
Ideas I have.
1. 3/4 ton frame Z front, 2-link rear w/panhard to law frame with 350 and 14 bolt rear Dominator 2600 bags all around. The 14 bolt would be geared to low for 472.
2. This is the way I am leaning, 1/2 ton frame Z front 2-link /panhard with Dominator 2600 bags all the way around and 12 bolt 3:08 ratio 6 lug rear end with the 472/Turbo 400.
I want to keep it beefy enough to haul the trailer with and lay frame for the cool factor.
Any ideas or suggestions and bag sizes and build ideas would be appreciated.

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

Use the Caddy and the Turbo 400 for sure. It will tow like a beast. I'd put the 3.08 12 bolt behind it.

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

Thanks for the response. That's the way I am thinking. From what I have read the 1/2 ton & 3/4 ton frame are same. Also need to figure bag sizes and suggestions for rear suspension that will work the best for towing and I can still bag and lay frame. Momma has to many home renovation ideas so it is going to be low buck budget build.

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

If you go with 1/2 ton running gear, you will want to make sure you upgrade to the best brakes possible. I would recommend a hydroboost. You will be trying to stop nearly 10,000 pounds.

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

My trailer has electric brakes, got to love'em. I wouldn't want to pull a trailer with any kind of weight without them. I have a power booster for the brakes and disc on the front. I may be getting ahold of you when I get to working on it for rhe rear disc adaptor for the 6 lug 12 bolt that I have. It sure would be nice ro run disc in the rear. Thanks for the advice.

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

Hydroboost! Trailer brakes, you will be safe beyond measure!!

Re: 64 C20 Build Suggestions
 

I plan on being safe, brakes are the most important part, does matter how fast or far you can go if you can't stop. Someone previous has mounted a brake booster on the firewall. Hoping to get it in the barn soon so I can start tearing into it. I have a friend that is a professional welder so I will tac stuff together and have him do the finish welding so I know it will be strong and safe. I will have power steering from the 85 frame also. I will start a build thread when I start on it. I will try to post some pics soon of what I have to start with.