Should I Subframe Or Stretch Donor Frame???

[nite53]

I am in the beginning stages of doing my 53 Panel Van. I have a donor 1985 Pontiac Grand Prix, complete car. (with Chevy engine and trans ). My first plan was to subframe the panel, and mount the rear axle, using the Grand Prix rear, and grafting the mounts for the diff. swing arms.

This morning I started looking things over, and now I'm wondering if I would be happier with using the entire Grand Prix frame. Your opinions, please?
Grafting the front frame: I still would have to "c" notch the rear for the lowering I want. And, taking the time to check geometry of the swaps.

The GP is about 30" shorter wheelbase than the Panel, since mine is a one ton body, so I'd have to stretch the GP frame, which in my thinking is easier than to graft onto the old Chevy Frame. My Chevy frame is good. But, I would like to have the weight as lite as possible, too.

From my quick, overview of the frames, the GP frame looks relatively straight from the firewall to the rear axle, much like the Panel. Of course, I'd have to take care of the radiator support, either way, and graft on something at the rear for the bumper.


Grafting on new body mount tabs and running board mounts seems easy enough.

So, please, give me your thoughts on the best way to lower it, easy way to keep all the angles, and all. What measurements do I need to look for most of all?
My goal is to not necessarily slam it, but way lower than the one ton profile!
Thanks,