1950 1 ton to 1/2 running gear

[chris j]

I bought a 50 GMC 1 ton because the body and frame are perfect. My plan is to put a 1/2 ton drop axle in the front and remove 3 of the existing leafs. Not sure how to approach the back. Do I want to move the existing springs forward and cut off the back end or would it be better to simply shorten the frame behind the cab and leave the mounts on the frame as they are? Also what width rear end do I need and does any one have a recommendation of what rear end is best to use?

[mr48chev]

I'd think that the best idea would be to find a decent 1/2 ton 3100 frame. Otherwise i'd shorten the 1 ton frame up and probably z it behind the cab or c notch it.

I'm not sure that 1/2 ton springs will bolt to the 1 ton spring mounts though as I have never tried it. The frame will be a lot heavier but that shouldn't be a big issue.

[chris j]

I was planning on keeping the springs that are on it but taking at least half of them out. I'm not sure what you mean by Z or C notch?

[ChevyBrad]

I would find a 1/2 ton frame, I was planning on doing the exact same thing to my 1 ton but they're too rare to destroy in good condition.

[jetnow1]

3/4 ton and 1/2 ton use the same front springs- don't know on the 1 tons but you may not
need to remove as many as you think. Remember most of the load weight is carried by the rear springs. The rear of the frames are different on 1/2 tons vs. the larger trucks, the
larger trucks have heavier frames that go straight back from the cab as opposed to the
1/2 ton which spreads out as it goes back. Zing the frame is cutting it, running a piece
uphill then going back level. Look at any aftermarket model t frame rear. C notch is putting a half circle open at the bottom in the frame just over the rear axle to allow the
frame to be lower while still allowing the rear suspension to move. Often needed when
the rear is lowered and or airbags are used to lower the vehicle.

[whitedog76]

The 1 ton frame is 1/2" narrower and the front of the frame is longer and has a drop to it. The springs and mounts on the 1 ton are longer and wider also. You would need the complete front suspension from a 1/2 ton and even then you'd have to space it out. Sounds like a headache to me. You're best bet would be to call Sid and see if he'll drop it for you.


http://www.droppedaxles.com/CHEVY_AXLES.html

[chris j]

I thought I would post an update to this project as it's about complete. I put a 1/2 ton 3 inch drop axle and disc brakes, in back I put a ford 9 inch I used the 1 ton springs front and rear. cut the frame down but a c notch in back shortened the drive line. Put a short bed on it and it turned out pretty good. At this time I still have the original 6 in it but you never know what might find its way under the hood down the road! Here a some pics of it so far well I cant figure out how to get pictures put in the post so if anyone can tell me how to do that I will.

[Katrina/10]

I'd like to see what you did.

[Advanced Design]

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[chris j]

wont let me post pics says there is a problem with a security token? Will keep trying

[Boom]

Use photobucket. It's simply a link you post to show pictures

[dennislbrooks]

I got same error. Was trying to post 3 pics. It worked for me when I uploaded them one at a time.

[chris j]

Ok I'll try posting again