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Old 02-28-2018, 01:04 PM   #1
cal30_sniper
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Coastal NC
Posts: 276
Suburban 4x4 frame swap

I'm contemplating a 4x4 conversion on my C20 Suburban since I already have it torn apart for everything else I'm doing to it. I've already decided that if I decide to do this, I'd rather do a frame swap than attempt get all the 4x4 stuff hung properly on the front frame.

I've had two options pop up that are the same asking price, I was wondering if anyone here might have some input on pros and cons. The first is a late 70s K20 Suburban. The body is rusted all to bits, but the frame looks solid. It's got a Dana 44/14Bolt axle combo with a NP205 transfer case. The second option is a K30 SRW crew cab with a Dana 60 front axle and round pattern NP205 transfer case. I want to swap one of these frames underneath my 86 C20, with a round pattern NP205 or NP241 to mate up to my NV4500 swap.

I realize that the K30 frame would have to be shortened at the rear to get the proper wheelbase, and it is my understanding it's also about 5" too short between the axle and the rear bumper. I reckon this could be solved by cutting and shortening the frame ahead of the rear axle, and moving the rear axle forward a bit to lengthen the frame behind it. If I went this route, I'd get the round pattern NP205, Dana 60 front axle, beefier springs, and bigger 1-ton frame.

If I go the K20 route, it's a direct frame swap, but I get the weaker frame and smaller axles/springs. That, and I still have to source a round pattern transfer case.

Any input on the cost/reward benefit for going the K30 route? Would I be better off just getting the K20 and upgrading the axles/transfer case, or is the larger frame really worth it.

I tow a good bit with this thing, up to a 10,000lb bumper pull enclosed trailer. I'd like to keep my towing ability, while expanding my offroad capability a bit. I don't even plan to lift the truck, I just want something with drivewheels on both ends. Of course, I could always get the crew cab and keep it as a crew cab, but I really would prefer to have a Suburban body.
__________________
86 Chevrolet K20/30 Suburban - 8.1/NV4500/NP205/Dana 60/14 bolt FF, build in progress
73 Formula - 400/Doug Nash 4+1, resto on hold
86 Chevrolet K30 3+3 - 350/TH400/NP241, Air Force/Forest Service Rescue Truck, for sale
01 Ram 2500 - 5.9L Magnum, daily driver
91 BMW 325i - Chumpcar series racecar
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