Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 - Page 4 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**BlueBullet** · 01-30-2018, 11:17 PM

Here is a closer picture of the trans to transfer case adapter. It's good and close to the floor. I didn't have the back shim in the body mount. Hopefully that will give some more lift. Also another picture of the transfer case linkage. I will have to also change out the other linkage piece. The hole is to big for the '72 linkage.

**BlueBullet** · 01-31-2018, 10:01 PM

Tonight I tore into the driveline. I cut off perches and got everything dialed in. One thing I noticed is the hanger bearing cross member is sloped downward. Not sure if they all have a slope but one thing to keep in mind. I didn't notice until I had things bolted together for test fitting. Also got the shock mount relocated.

**Dieselwrencher** · 01-31-2018, 10:19 PM

It looks like you might need to knock the rivets out of the carrier bearing riser bracket and move it to the right a little too. It doesn't look to be straight from the tcase to the pinion by the way it looks.

**BlueBullet** · 01-31-2018, 10:29 PM

I was wondering about that whether it was ok or would have to be straight in line. I will have to shorten the rear driveshaft. There is little to no travel.

7dee2 · 02-03-2018, 10:53 AM

Looks great, good move on the front driveline plenty of travel now.

Looks like the carrier cross member just needs to be squared up to the drivetrain centerline then square to the rails. Should be fine with a little adjustment, try a laser and good mounts, carrier bearing etc. when you do this you'll get the whole shebang nutz on! The rear section may kick over a little to mate to the off center 14b pinion.

**BlueBullet** · 02-03-2018, 09:40 PM

The past few days I got the perchs welded back on, painted and rear axle secured again. I was able to slide over the hanger bearing mount to get the driveline straightened out. Pulled power train and got all the holes drilled for all the cross members. Started clean power train.

**BlueBullet** · 02-03-2018, 10:13 PM

Today was spent cleaning up parts for paint. Finished cleaning the power train and got it primed. Then I tackled the front cross member. I ended up using the '80's style. Wasn't to bad just took some time and a few choice words.

. The cross member is actually in backwards compared to the way it was in the K30 frame. I put the cross member in the way the original cross member was and attached the sway bar. Now that I now the position it had to be in I squared it up and got out the torch. With the torch and a good set of welding clamps I heated the edges and pulled top corners up to the frame. I started off with some lighter clamps and they just didn't have the torque. I them did the same for the bottom drivers side. It's doubled up there so you have to get it good and hot then crank er down. Don't forget like I did and remove the bottom bushing. Luckily I caught it in time but still got a little deformed. I then started on the passenger side and worked my way around drilling and bolts. Making sure everything stayed square. For reference the top holes ended up being 2" forward of the factory holes. That was enough fun for one day.

**BlueBullet** · 02-03-2018, 10:18 PM

Also got the shocks installed

**Dieselwrencher** · 02-04-2018, 01:24 AM

Very nice work!

**BlueBullet** · 02-04-2018, 09:18 PM

This morning I painted the power train and sandblasted a bunch of miscellaneous pieces for moving forward. I then tried out my new powder coating gun. It went pretty well for the first time but I am learning a lot. I purchased a stove for $25 on Craigslist to cure the parts. Did three batches now I will be ready to drop the motor back in tomorrow. This afternoon I changed transmission fluid and filter. Also put a new oil pan gasket, oil filter, and fuel pump. Had to stop there because I need longer bolts for the motor mounts.

**fishnixon** · 02-04-2018, 10:12 PM

I love the stance of Big Bird. Nice job! I will be keeping an eye as the build continues.

**71blksuper4x4** · 02-05-2018, 12:09 AM

Nathan, can you take a measurement for me on your frame rails. What is the height of the biggest spot on the frame behind the front cab mounts? Is it 8"? Thanks Trevor

Vintage Windmills · 02-05-2018, 01:25 AM

Nice progress!

**BlueBullet** · 02-05-2018, 10:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 71blksuper4x4

Nathan, can you take a measurement for me on your frame rails. What is the height of the biggest spot on the frame behind the front cab mounts? Is it 8"? Thanks Trevor

7 1/2" right behind front cab mount. 18" back it's 8"

**BlueBullet** · 02-05-2018, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vintage Windmills

Nice progress!

Thanks Jud

P.S. I would be interested in buying the Longhorn back if that day comes.

**71blksuper4x4** · 02-05-2018, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlueBullet

7 1/2" right behind front cab mount. 18" back it's 8"

Thanks a million!

**BlueBullet** · 02-05-2018, 11:24 PM

One thing about building a truck is there are times when it feels as if I am just treading water. Clean, blast, clean, paint repeat. But when it comes to assembly it's like it's Christmas time and you get to put things together. I will have to say that is one of most enjoyable feeling to this hobby. Today was that kind of day. Bolted on the water pump and the engine mounts with transmission support braces. Got the transmission and front cross member installed along with my make shift steering gearbox brace. I just cut out that area of one of my donor frames and bolted it up. Not the ideal setup but thought it can't hurt. So the gearbox also got installed. Then it was time to drop in the drivetrain. Went together like a dream. I installed the transfer case shifter and the front driveshaft temporarily to get it off the floor.

**BlueBullet** · 02-05-2018, 11:35 PM

A couple more pictures

**Dieselwrencher** · 02-06-2018, 12:12 AM

Looking nice! I really despise those 4x4 engine cross members. I'm doing a Longhorn C30 to K30 right now and i'm making a Napco inspired engine cross member for it. At least you went with the poly ones!

sweetk30 · 02-06-2018, 12:45 AM

fyi your front dana 60 needs to get rid of the 80's warn hubs and get the early used spicer hubs on it .

stronger and look more correct for this build .

**BlueBullet** · 02-06-2018, 12:47 AM

Where does one go to find a set of those hubs?

**Dieselwrencher** · 02-06-2018, 12:54 AM

Break your wallet out when you find them.

I just painted my knobs blue to hold off the purists. Haha

**BlueBullet** · 02-06-2018, 12:58 AM

I kinda figured they were probably spendy. I have a couple blue sets for 3/4 tons saved for the future. What does a Napco cross member look like?

Turnip Truck · 02-06-2018, 03:17 PM

Blue, can I get you to measure the height inside your frame c channel in the circled area? No rush at all- I'm just trying to make sure my frame isn't pinched, pulled, squeezed or tweaked. I'd greatly appreciate it!

Name: 1ton frame.jpg
Views: 787
Size: 60.3 KB

Name: 1ton frame.jpg
Views: 787
Size: 60.3 KB

**BlueBullet** · 02-06-2018, 10:45 PM

Inside measurement is 5-1/8" top to bottom right in front of cross member. I posted in your thread also and wanted to post again here for future reference.

01-30-2018, 11:17 PM	#76
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Here is a closer picture of the trans to transfer case adapter. It's good and close to the floor. I didn't have the back shim in the body mount. Hopefully that will give some more lift. Also another picture of the transfer case linkage. I will have to also change out the other linkage piece. The hole is to big for the '72 linkage. Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

01-31-2018, 10:01 PM	#77
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Tonight I tore into the driveline. I cut off perches and got everything dialed in. One thing I noticed is the hanger bearing cross member is sloped downward. Not sure if they all have a slope but one thing to keep in mind. I didn't notice until I had things bolted together for test fitting. Also got the shock mount relocated. Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

01-31-2018, 10:19 PM	#78
Dieselwrencher 6>8 Plugless........ Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Prairie City, Ia Posts: 17,139	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 It looks like you might need to knock the rivets out of the carrier bearing riser bracket and move it to the right a little too. It doesn't look to be straight from the tcase to the pinion by the way it looks. __________________ Ryan 1972 Chevy Longhorn K30 Cheyenne Super, 359 Inline 6 cylinder, Auto Trans, Tilt, Diesel Tach/Vach, Buckets, Rare Rear 4-link and air ride option Build Thread 1972 GMC Sierra Grande Longhorn 4x4 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super K20 Long Step side tilt, tach, tow hooks, AC, 350 4 speed 1972 C10 Suburban Custom Deluxe 1969 Chevy milk truck 1971 Camaro RS 5.3 BTR STG3 Cam Super T10 1940 Ford 354 Hemi 46RH Ford 9" on air ride huge project *Tired of spark plugs? Check this out.*

01-31-2018, 10:29 PM	#79
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 I was wondering about that whether it was ok or would have to be straight in line. I will have to shorten the rear driveshaft. There is little to no travel. __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-03-2018, 10:53 AM	#80
7dee2 Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: Syracuse, Utah Posts: 1,956	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Looks great, good move on the front driveline plenty of travel now. Looks like the carrier cross member just needs to be squared up to the drivetrain centerline then square to the rails. Should be fine with a little adjustment, try a laser and good mounts, carrier bearing etc. when you do this you'll get the whole shebang nutz on! The rear section may kick over a little to mate to the off center 14b pinion. __________________ Brett 67 Camaro SS: 67 Camaro Build 72 Cheyenne/C10 Super 115" Fleetside: 72 C10 Build 72 Cheyenne/K30 Super 133" Longhorn DRW: 72 K30 Build SOLD YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@6dee7-7dee2 Last edited by 7dee2; 02-03-2018 at 11:05 AM.

02-03-2018, 09:40 PM	#81
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 The past few days I got the perchs welded back on, painted and rear axle secured again. I was able to slide over the hanger bearing mount to get the driveline straightened out. Pulled power train and got all the holes drilled for all the cross members. Started clean power train. __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-03-2018, 10:13 PM	#82
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Today was spent cleaning up parts for paint. Finished cleaning the power train and got it primed. Then I tackled the front cross member. I ended up using the '80's style. Wasn't to bad just took some time and a few choice words.. The cross member is actually in backwards compared to the way it was in the K30 frame. I put the cross member in the way the original cross member was and attached the sway bar. Now that I now the position it had to be in I squared it up and got out the torch. With the torch and a good set of welding clamps I heated the edges and pulled top corners up to the frame. I started off with some lighter clamps and they just didn't have the torque. I them did the same for the bottom drivers side. It's doubled up there so you have to get it good and hot then crank er down. Don't forget like I did and remove the bottom bushing. Luckily I caught it in time but still got a little deformed. I then started on the passenger side and worked my way around drilling and bolts. Making sure everything stayed square. For reference the top holes ended up being 2" forward of the factory holes. That was enough fun for one day. Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-03-2018, 10:18 PM	#83
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Also got the shocks installed Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-04-2018, 01:24 AM	#84
Dieselwrencher 6>8 Plugless........ Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Prairie City, Ia Posts: 17,139	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Very nice work! __________________ Ryan 1972 Chevy Longhorn K30 Cheyenne Super, 359 Inline 6 cylinder, Auto Trans, Tilt, Diesel Tach/Vach, Buckets, Rare Rear 4-link and air ride option Build Thread 1972 GMC Sierra Grande Longhorn 4x4 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super K20 Long Step side tilt, tach, tow hooks, AC, 350 4 speed 1972 C10 Suburban Custom Deluxe 1969 Chevy milk truck 1971 Camaro RS 5.3 BTR STG3 Cam Super T10 1940 Ford 354 Hemi 46RH Ford 9" on air ride huge project *Tired of spark plugs? Check this out.*

02-04-2018, 09:18 PM	#85
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 This morning I painted the power train and sandblasted a bunch of miscellaneous pieces for moving forward. I then tried out my new powder coating gun. It went pretty well for the first time but I am learning a lot. I purchased a stove for $25 on Craigslist to cure the parts. Did three batches now I will be ready to drop the motor back in tomorrow. This afternoon I changed transmission fluid and filter. Also put a new oil pan gasket, oil filter, and fuel pump. Had to stop there because I need longer bolts for the motor mounts. Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-04-2018, 10:12 PM	#86
fishnixon Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Ely, Minnesota Posts: 543	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 I love the stance of Big Bird. Nice job! I will be keeping an eye as the build continues.

02-05-2018, 12:09 AM	#87
71blksuper4x4 SWB 4x4 Collector Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Osage City, KS Posts: 5,155	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Nathan, can you take a measurement for me on your frame rails. What is the height of the biggest spot on the frame behind the front cab mounts? Is it 8"? Thanks Trevor __________________ TREVOR 1970 CST swb 4x4 (speedwarning,cruise,tilt,tach,8track, original red shoulder belts,tow hooks) 1972 Jimmy (soon to be Hickey cloned) 1971 Cheyenne Super 4x4 swb (tilt,tach,buckets, original blue shoulder belts,am/fm,cruise,tow hooks, dealer 8 track) 1972 Cheyenne Super K20 4x4 Custom Camper (tilt, tach, am/fm, tow hooks, bed toolbox, aux gas tank 1972 Cheyenne Super Crew Cab K30 4x4 Duramax, Allison, np205, buckets, tow hooks (CURRENT PROJECT) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=624819 1989 V3500 Crew Cab (454tbi, NV4500, np205) 1970 Chevelle SS (LS5 454,th400,8track,buckets,tach) :2004 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (daily driver) WTB: 1968-70 Cruise Control Lever

02-05-2018, 01:25 AM	#88
Vintage Windmills Vintage 4x4s Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Prior Lake, MN Posts: 4,305	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Nice progress! __________________ 67 GMC K1500 Custom- 305V6 SM420, PTO, Ram Assist, yellow (the outcast) (project period correct upgrades) 67 GMC C2500 351V6 TH400, AC, PS, PB (can't decide what to do with. Update, decided to keep and will restore ) 86 CHV K30 502 th400, apple red NEW 71 CHV K20 350 SM465, ochre (saved work truck) 71 CHV K20 292 SM465, white, tach, PTO, (future project) 72 CHV K20 350 350th, medium blue (project stocker) 01 CHV K2500hd crew, indigo blue ^3 dont run and the others don't see winter either '86 K30 Cummins "Fireside" thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=649649 '71 K20 "get driveable" thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=590642 '72 K20 Build Thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=493477&page=6

02-05-2018, 11:24 PM	#92
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 One thing about building a truck is there are times when it feels as if I am just treading water. Clean, blast, clean, paint repeat. But when it comes to assembly it's like it's Christmas time and you get to put things together. I will have to say that is one of most enjoyable feeling to this hobby. Today was that kind of day. Bolted on the water pump and the engine mounts with transmission support braces. Got the transmission and front cross member installed along with my make shift steering gearbox brace. I just cut out that area of one of my donor frames and bolted it up. Not the ideal setup but thought it can't hurt. So the gearbox also got installed. Then it was time to drop in the drivetrain. Went together like a dream. I installed the transfer case shifter and the front driveshaft temporarily to get it off the floor. Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-05-2018, 11:35 PM	#93
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 A couple more pictures Attached Images __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294



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02-06-2018, 12:12 AM	#94
Dieselwrencher 6>8 Plugless........ Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Prairie City, Ia Posts: 17,139	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Looking nice! I really despise those 4x4 engine cross members. I'm doing a Longhorn C30 to K30 right now and i'm making a Napco inspired engine cross member for it. At least you went with the poly ones! __________________ Ryan 1972 Chevy Longhorn K30 Cheyenne Super, 359 Inline 6 cylinder, Auto Trans, Tilt, Diesel Tach/Vach, Buckets, Rare Rear 4-link and air ride option Build Thread 1972 GMC Sierra Grande Longhorn 4x4 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super K20 Long Step side tilt, tach, tow hooks, AC, 350 4 speed 1972 C10 Suburban Custom Deluxe 1969 Chevy milk truck 1971 Camaro RS 5.3 BTR STG3 Cam Super T10 1940 Ford 354 Hemi 46RH Ford 9" on air ride huge project *Tired of spark plugs? Check this out.*

02-06-2018, 12:45 AM	#95
sweetk30 Registered User Join Date: May 2012 Location: horseheads,ny rust belt Posts: 2,794	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 fyi your front dana 60 needs to get rid of the 80's warn hubs and get the early used spicer hubs on it . stronger and look more correct for this build . Attached Images __________________ 77-k30lb BIG truck build . 87-k30lb budget beater build . 85-k30lb the plow machine build . 85-c10sb summer fun toy . ----------------------------- HOLLEY SNIPER efi = worst case of p.i.t.a i ever had . EDELBROCK pro flo 4 = best deal going so far . love my setup works great.

02-06-2018, 12:47 AM	#96
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Where does one go to find a set of those hubs? __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-06-2018, 12:54 AM	#97
Dieselwrencher 6>8 Plugless........ Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Prairie City, Ia Posts: 17,139	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Break your wallet out when you find them. I just painted my knobs blue to hold off the purists. Haha __________________ Ryan 1972 Chevy Longhorn K30 Cheyenne Super, 359 Inline 6 cylinder, Auto Trans, Tilt, Diesel Tach/Vach, Buckets, Rare Rear 4-link and air ride option Build Thread 1972 GMC Sierra Grande Longhorn 4x4 1972 Chevy Cheyenne Super K20 Long Step side tilt, tach, tow hooks, AC, 350 4 speed 1972 C10 Suburban Custom Deluxe 1969 Chevy milk truck 1971 Camaro RS 5.3 BTR STG3 Cam Super T10 1940 Ford 354 Hemi 46RH Ford 9" on air ride huge project *Tired of spark plugs? Check this out.*

02-06-2018, 12:58 AM	#98
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 I kinda figured they were probably spendy. I have a couple blue sets for 3/4 tons saved for the future. What does a Napco cross member look like? __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

02-06-2018, 03:17 PM	#99
Turnip Truck Registered User Join Date: Jan 2018 Location: Decatur Alabama Posts: 66	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Blue, can I get you to measure the height inside your frame c channel in the circled area? No rush at all- I'm just trying to make sure my frame isn't pinched, pulled, squeezed or tweaked. I'd greatly appreciate it! __________________ Dan 1970 C30- 350/SM465 133" WB, Soon to be a K series 1970 C10- LWB 250/3OTT, (sold) 1966 IH Scout 800- 152/T-90/Dana 20/ D27s

02-06-2018, 10:45 PM	#100
BlueBullet Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Danvers Minnesota Posts: 967	Re: Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 Inside measurement is 5-1/8" top to bottom right in front of cross member. I posted in your thread also and wanted to post again here for future reference. __________________ 1972 K10 SWB wife's driver 1967 Pontiac GTO Big Bird - 1972 Longhorn K30 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=753294

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