I need advice- 72 2wd to 4x4

[olivedrab]

I have a 72 gmc longbed 2wd. I am working on making it a 4x4, I got the donor truck for parts and will be getting the FGB52 kit from diy4x.com.

I know atleast one of you out there has done this or know more about it than I do. Any advice on problems I might run into would be great.

[Yukon Jack]

What year is your donor truck and is it also a lwb?

[FormerMember]

I've done this. Pics and build in my sig.

No major problems. I also used DIY4x4's engine crossmember kit.

[olivedrab]

the donor truck is a 85 k10 swb.

I was figurin on using the axles from it along with the transfer case, transmission, and engine. I know I will need a different drive shaft but those are problems to worry about after its done. My main concern is hanging the springs in the front.


with that kit it says i will need a set of 52" springs which is what the donor truck has.

[olivedrab]

GRENDEL- if I am using another small block in place of a small block will i need a new crossmember?

yea I have studied your build up and thats where I got the idea from. Im sure I will be asking you more questions

[FormerMember]

Originally Posted by olivedrab

GRENDEL- if I am using another small block in place of a small block will i need a new crossmember?

yea I have studied your build up and thats where I got the idea from. Im sure I will be asking you more questions

Well, the 2wd cross member(anchors your engine and front suspension) will be in the way of your suspension and axle.

You at least need a 4wd cross member. I have one from a 71 K5 if you want it.

[olivedrab]

Originally Posted by grendel

Well, the 2wd cross member(anchors your engine and front suspension) will be in the way of your suspension and axle.

You at least need a 4wd cross member. I have one from a 71 K5 if you want it.

what about the 4wd cross member off of the donor truck will it work?

[FormerMember]

Originally Posted by olivedrab

what about the 4wd cross member off of the donor truck will it work?

Yep.

[Yukon Jack]

I think Grendel's thread is the most detailed one your going to find. I spent a while and looked through some old posts - here they are - maybe something in them will be of use.

A few questions about a 4x4 conversion

4x4 Conversion

One more time 2x4 to 4x4

2x4 to 4x4

Another 2x4 to 4x4 post

[FormerMember]

I am happy to take pics for you or measurements if needed. I think my frame's a little thicker, but all the other measurements should be the same.

[olivedrab]

thank yall both for the help. there is no other website like this by far, including the experience to be found here.

as soon as i figure out how to put pics up here ill start puting some up

[FormerMember]

Tell Kert I sent him to you, when you order.



(Not worth anything to me, beyond that fact that he's my friend)

[olivedrab]

Originally Posted by grendel

Tell Kert I sent him to you, when you order.



(Not worth anything to me, beyond that fact that he's my friend)

alright, will do. I should be ordering that kit within the next month or two. I have got to work on the wifes cadillac...

[Yukon Jack]

If you go to the FAQ section there is an index and it has a link to a thread or two about posting pics. If you're still having trouble, PM me and I'll try to help ya.

[olivedrab]

Originally Posted by Yukon Jack

If you go to the FAQ section there is an index and it has a link to a thread or two about posting pics. If you're still having trouble, PM me and I'll try to help ya.

Thanks

[olivedrab]

hey grendel what would you recomend using to cut the whole in the frame for the rear part of the spring? i have a few ideas but yet you have done it before...

also did you have any problems with your transmission linkage after it was all said and done?