1961 Apache 30 question

[mcmullinauctions]

I have a 61 Apache 30 (one ton dually) and I was wondering if the front crossmember/suspension from a 73-87 chevy C-30 would be an almost direct bolt in just as the 1/2 and 3/4 ton models were. Has anyone tried this? I would really like to upgrade to a newer higher rear gear as well for fuel mileage!

[jonzcustomshop]

I don't know for sure, but I am thinking yes, compared to the interchange on the 1/2 and 3/4 tons.
It was mentioned on a 61 1/2 ton conversion that only 2 bolt holes (1 on each side) line up. the rest have to be drilled out.

[Captainfab]

If I'm not mistaken your '61 Apache 30 doesn't have a 'X' member frame. Am I correct? Either way a '73-'87 front crossmember and suspension will bolt up as easily as in a 10 or 20 series '60-'62. If it doesn't have the 'X' member frame, it may be a little easier than the 10 or 20 series trucks......can't say for sure. Also in my previous research I had found there to be no difference in the crossmember,control arms, and ball joints between the C20 and C30's in the '73-'87 years. The main difference is from the spindle out and sometimes the springs.

[mcmullinauctions]

Thanks for the help! My truck doesn't appear to have the X member in it. Now all I have to do is locate a C-30 dually in my area.

[Captainfab]

Just a tip when looking for donor parts. Don't forget about the Cube vans, Step vans, and the small to medium motorhomes (don't remembet the class designations). They had the same 1 ton running gear as the 1 ton dually trucks. Although the differential might be a little narrower than a dually pickup. And if you find a front suspension and can't find a differential, you might consider one from a F**d or D***e. They typically came with either Dana70's or 80's. Since you are going to have to move the spring pads regardless of what make it comes out of, it really doesn't matter. I have a Dana 70 out of a f**d in my '66 C30.....I got a good deal on it.