77 1/2 ton 454 suburban

[75gmc454]

I found a 77 suburban in the junkyard with a 454. It is complete with the rad, shroud, a/c, etc. So I want to buy the suburban and take the drivetrain out and put it in a lwb chevy truck that is about the same mid seventies model I can use for towing. Would the driveshaft be the only problem with that swap? What is the difference between the wheelbase on the suburban and the truck?

I already have a 73 gmc 454 and it has a two piece driveshaft even though it is a short wheel base. As for the engine in the burb, I dont have a truck to put it in yet. I want a lwb and would like to get by with a one piece driveshaft. Any suggestions?

[Zoomad75]

Buy the sub and yank the drivetrain. When you get the LWB, stuff the drivetrain into it. Measure for a solid driveshaft and send the measurements to a shop and get one made. Pretty simple.

Or, take the one piece shaft from the sub and send it to a driveshaft shop to get lengthend to the size needed. At least this way would be cheaper because you are providing them with the yokes rather than starting from scratch.

[streetstar]

Some of the members have some pretty stout trucks (650 hp, stuff like that) that they use on the 'strip with two-piecers, if its strength that your worried about.

[Mkcustums]

Originally Posted by 75gmc454

What is the difference between the wheelbase on the suburban and the truck?

1973 to 1991 Suburban 129.5 in (3289 mm)

1973 to 1987 Truck 117.5 in (2985 mm)
----- -- ---------- 131.5 in (3340 mm)
----- -- ---------- 164.5 in (4178 mm)

[TLoz]

75gmc454,
After you gut the salvage burb, what are you going to do with the frame? I'm looking for some of the body mount brackets and a rear 18" on one side.
Thanks, Tom