C-10 to C-30 Conversion

[Belairboy55]

I have a 1968 C-10 that I am wanting to convert to a dually. I will be installing a 12 valve with overdrive auto trans from a Dodge 1 ton. I have a 1988 1 ton donor truck and also have a 1991 Dodge 1 ton donor truck. I did some measuring and it looks like I can run the upper and lower 1 ton control arms and bolt them straight to my C-10 without changing the hole cross member. I would use all steering components off the 1988 1 ton as well. The axle tubes on the Dodge is 3.5" and the Chevy 1 ton is 4.5" compared to the 3" 1968 axle tube or rear end housing. I was going to try to mount the Dodge rear end on the factory C-10 trailing arms to retain the good ride of the coil rear end trucks. The frame rail widths are the same on the 1968 and on the 1988 so I could convert to leaf but I am up in there air on that decision?? Can anyone verify that the front end conversion is as I stated above. Thanks!
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[N2TRUX]

I am no expert on diesel conversions, but I think your asking for trouble by using the C10 frame. Unless you plan to make some serious mods the additional weight, combined with the massive torque will leave your frame as the weak link.

There are a lot of conversion threads on this topic in the year specific forums under projects. I recommend spending some time there researching this before you start your build.

[SCOTI]

I agree.... C30 frames are taller & utilize thicker steel for increased strength vs a C10 frame. Late model turbo diesel truck frames are even stouter to handle the additional forces. It would be a ticking time bomb swapping a motor like that into a OE 68 frame.

[andrewmp6]

A 12 valve is over 1200lbs dressed and filled.Watch craigslist for a c30 cab and chassis and cut the frame down to a lwb would be the best way i see.Unless your going to be pulling a big heavy trailer with it a lot a 4bt with mods can make the power of a 12 valve.The 4bt weights about what a big block does but its harder to find used then a 12 valve is.

[Belairboy55]

Is there a difference in a C-30 vs a C-20? C-20 would be way easier as the wheelbase would be correct. If I went the C-30 route I would have to cut the frame down as they C-30 trucks never had factory beds from what I have read?? I plan on adding some extra cross members and boxing the frame as well?? Do you guys suggest that?
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