Double Jeopardy

[OldChevysRule]

I got the 55 GMC parts truck home and was looking over it some to see what I may be able to salvage from it. I was planning to use the frame from the GMC since it is in better shape than what is currently on my 55 Chevy 3200. I noticed that the radiator core support mounting is different on the GMC. I also noticed that the GMC has twice as many leaf springs front and rear than what is on my Chevy frame. Anyone have any insight to share on this and any other differences between the Chevy and GMC? Thanks for your help.

[OldChevysRule]

Well, I haven't posted any updates in a while. I haven't really done anything to the truck. Since I am letting my son give input on the direction of the build, he said he wanted a 4x4 diesel dually, so I have been trying to gather parts for that. I picked up a Dana 70 dually axle from a 1985 Chevy C30 with wheels and tires for $150. The axle doesn't have any slop in it, but I didn't get the leaf springs with it, so I am still on the lookout for those. I also picked up a complete 6.2L diesel with the serpentine belt setup out of a 1990 model Chevy crew cab truck for $200. The PO said that it had a dropped valve....so it may need a rebuild. I also got myself a new Lincoln 140 HD MIG welder so that I can eventually start to do some sheet metal work. I think I may cut pieces off the parts truck and practice on those to build proficiency before I weld on the actual panels of the truck. I am still on the lookout for a Dana 60 front axle and 3/4 ton springs. I am thinking about running 3/4 ton springs under the rear also, just to give a little better ride quality.

[dug224]

Originally Posted by OldChevysRule

Well, I haven't posted any updates in a while. I haven't really done anything to the truck. Since I am letting my son give input on the direction of the build, he said he wanted a 4x4 diesel dually, so I have been trying to gather parts for that. I picked up a Dana 70 dually axle from a 1985 Chevy C30 with wheels and tires for $150. The axle doesn't have any slop in it, but I didn't get the leaf springs with it, so I am still on the lookout for those. I also picked up a complete 6.2L diesel with the serpentine belt setup out of a 1990 model Chevy crew cab truck for $200. The PO said that it had a dropped valve....so it may need a rebuild. I also got myself a new Lincoln 140 HD MIG welder so that I can eventually start to do some sheet metal work. I think I may cut pieces off the parts truck and practice on those to build proficiency before I weld on the actual panels of the truck. I am still on the lookout for a Dana 60 front axle and 3/4 ton springs. I am thinking about running 3/4 ton springs under the rear also, just to give a little better ride quality.

Lofty goals. I like. Never forget....RUST DOESN'T SLEEP here in Alabama!!! Need to save up for a shed (or a good tarp!) in which to build the truck. You are making headway and that's all that counts. dug

[OldChevysRule]

Doug...you're right about the rust. I have the somewhat active project in my shop. The future project is under my shed and the parts truck is sitting in the yard (much to my wife's dismay)! But FINALLY getting a MIG welder is a big relief, for sure.