Will these parts work?

[mistertrose]

Guys,

Still learning the differences in these trucks. I currently have a 68 Chevy C10Stepper, short wheel base. Its still 6 lug, drums all around, non-power. It has a 5.7 liter FI motor and tranny out of a 95 GMC truck so it runs good and very dependable. The part I don't fully trust are the brakes.

I ran across a good running 72 GMC long bed that is 5 lug, disc brakes in front. Will these suspension parts convert over to mine? Is it just bolt on or any fabbing required?

The 5 lug rear end uses leaf springs, mine has trailing arms. What is needed to swap that rearend in to mine? Does that require cutting and welding of mounts? Or can I change over the axels and brakes?

72 has power brake booster. Will this just replace my current? Oh yeah, as a side note, the 72 is on a set of decent 17 inch wheels.

I can get this 72 for a hell of a deal. ($750) Is it worth to take this route, or do I just buy a conversion. The only thing wrong with the 72 is that the clutch is out. Runs OK, body better than average.

Thank you all in advance and for helping out a newbie!

TR

[msgross]

It might be easier to swap your save the GMC and worry about the 68 at another time. Really depends on what you want to do with your truck... as far as I know yea, the spindles will bolt up to your 68, rear axle shafts MIGHT swap over if they are both corp 12 bolts and the same width. Then you don't have to change the mounts for the entire axle.

Another benefit of the newer frame is the ability to add power steering (if it doesn't have it already) Sounds like you can just replace the clutch and drive it as is... Might be better to find a crappier parts truck for your lug conversion...

[mistertrose]

I thought that too and even told the guy I'd hate to use his truck as a parts truck and then probably just strip out the parts to resale. Its good enough for someone to fix and make an OK driver. But since it was a recent driver until the clutch went out, the brakes and everything are not rusted over and could be an easy swap. I do not know the condition of the frame or how much body work has been done.

On the other hand, the 68 is in great shape with a fuel injected, more modern drive train. It only lacks 5 lug and disc brakes, both already have power steering Plus it is a stepside (which I prefer) and a SWB. The 72 GMC is in "good" shape and LWB.. Its a driver but needs WAY more work than the 68. Thats why its only $750. If I bought the truck, I could sell off a running 350 with relatively new carb and distributor and recoup part of my cost. I also know a guy who could use the front clip and the gas tank.

So, back to my original question, can anyone confirm if these parts will bolt on?

[Longhorn Man]

front end will bolt on, you'll want the booster and master cylinder too
The rear will need the trailing arm stuff welded on, the axle shafts will be too long to fit your rear.