[OrrieG]

I have used and abused my truck as a 235/4 speed 2wd and current 4wd configuration using the stock 1/2 ton frame and shocks. I ran air shocks to supplement the springs when loaded. Most I ever carried was the bed full of busted up concrete side walk. For 20 years it had a 600# camper on the back during the summer and hunting season.

If you are going to use it do not box the frame or weld up the cross members. These trucks were designed to flex and twist across irrigation ditches, fields and up in the woods. If they cannot move the frames will crack next to the welds. I intend to use mine when I get it back on the road and you will notice in my build thread everything is attacked to the frame with G8 bolts, no welds.

As far as the front end decide what you want to use, look at the gross weight of the donar vehicle and if it is greater than the truck you are good. I kept my stock springs and shackles, I figure if GM spent millions engineering it no need to mess with it.