01-14-2013, 05:31 PM | #1 |
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Location: vermilion bay ontario
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Frames
Can anyone tell me if all 55-59 shortbox frames are interchangable GMC or Chevrolet.
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01-14-2013, 05:50 PM | #2 |
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Re: Frames
yes on chevy
motor mounts and core support might be different on the gmc basically the same frame
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01-14-2013, 07:20 PM | #3 |
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Re: Frames
58-59 the front rails are about 3" longer, but core support, spring shackles, etc. are all in the same location.
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01-14-2013, 07:24 PM | #4 |
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Re: Frames
So I should be able to use the 58 GMC frame in place of my 55 Chevy and just trim off 3 inches . Are the core support brackets the same?
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01-14-2013, 07:46 PM | #5 |
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Re: Frames
You should be able to use it. The front cross member is a little different also but that won't hold you up. Wait to cut the frame rails off until you mock up the front clip. That way you can set the bumper where you want it and do not risk cutting too much off.
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01-14-2013, 09:00 PM | #6 |
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Re: Frames
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01-14-2013, 09:16 PM | #7 |
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Re: Frames
But I should be able to use the chevy core support brackets and remove the GMC. I dont know if there is a difference but the GMC frame is canadian. I think GMC used Pontiac engines and Canada used Chevy. I think?
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01-15-2013, 12:10 AM | #8 |
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Re: Frames
isn't the steering wheel on the right side in canada?
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01-15-2013, 11:01 AM | #9 |
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Re: Frames
Yea I guess I deserved that one.What I meant to say is the GMC frame is off a 58 9314 which is a canadian model. I think either GMC USA or GMC Canada used pontiac engines. I heard Pontiac engines were mounted different and that is why the GMC frame is longer than the Chevy.Or am I out to lunch on this one .Anyways I think the GMC frame will fit on my Chevy.
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01-15-2013, 12:36 PM | #10 |
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Re: Frames
The GMC six was/is a bit longer to begin with but I think the difference in frames between 55/57 and 58/59 has more to do with the sheet metal on the nose than engine size.
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01-15-2013, 01:50 PM | #11 |
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Re: Frames
Exactly, the hood and fenders are longer, engine crossmember is in the same place 55-59.
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1959 Chevy Short Fleetside w/ 74 4WD drive train (current project) OrrieG Build Thread 1964 Chevelle Malibu w/ 355-350TH (daily driver) Helpful AD and TF Manual Site Old Car Manual Project |
01-16-2013, 01:26 AM | #12 |
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Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Shasta Lake, CA.
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Re: Frames
On my '57 GMC the rad support mount is a center mount on its own crossmember. The trans cross member has a bolt in cross piece. The engine mounts are different then the Chevy also.
The pictures are of a Chevy frame that I'm using to replace the GMC Frame, note the rad support brackets on top of the frame rails. This will require a Chevy rad support and some mods made to the GMC grill to mount it. I'm using a NoLimit Wide Ride front suspension system and their Fat Bar rear suspension and a Currie 9" rear axle. |
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