Is a 68 2wd swb frame the same as a 72

[budman k20]

Hi,

I found a 68 swb frame that I want to use on a 72 will the 68 frame work? This is a frame with crossmembers only. I hope to use my 72 front crossmember and suspension and 72 rear trailing arms and rear end on the 68 frame. I'm picking it up this weekend if it will work. I tried using the search but didn't see any thing that confirms the frames are the same or different.

Maybe a better question is what is different between the 68 and 72 frames?

Can someone help me out!

Thanks

[john]

The only difference I know of is the holes are smaller in the radiator support brackets. If the brackets are in the same position on the frame, they would be easy to bore out larger.

[budman k20]

Thanks for pointing that out. I thought there was a dimple by the steering box difference as well or is that a 67 only thing?

I have a lwb frame to compare it too but they wont be side by side. I dont want to buy the 68 frame and find out I need different crossmembers etc.

[67Slider]

The steering issue is 67 only. I have heard rumor of early 68's but someone else may chime in. I have a 67 and I put pwr steering on it. It shouldn't kill your deal. Easily fixed with some heat and a BFH.

[68gmsee]

If you install power steering, you may have to shim the gearbox with couple of washers on the bolts but that's not a big deal. I've had mine shimmed for several year with no problems.

[gcburdic]

the tranny x-members are different pending if the truck had a manual or auto (IIRC, the manual is riveted in, the auto is bolted in)...it's a easy swap....if it doesn't have the dimple...heat the area with a torch and make a dimple with a BFH

Front suspension x-member can be used too with no mods that I know of....

to add to what 'john' said, when buying rad support bushings you'll need 67-68 for the 72 front clip to line up

[Longhorn Man]

the 72 is made with stronger steel, but it's hardly worth mentioning.