'70 1/2 Ton GMC LWB 4x4 Newbie Build

[MyMach5]

Originally Posted by silver7

My front spring shackle also had what looked like a strip of steel welded across the face. I always wondered if this came from the factory this way.

Love the truck.

Thanks man. I think someone actually posted that the strip of steel is from the factory and is designed to keep the front end from ripping free in certain types of accidents. Not sure on that though.

Originally Posted by Yukon Jack

Great build thread! Nice work.

Thanks! This truck has been a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to better weather (warmer) so I can start taking the bed and front clip off for sanding, painting, etc. Also found out recently that my SBC 350 is getting a little tired so rebuilding/replacing is now part of the plan as well.

Originally Posted by msgross

first time i've seen this one, nice...

what do those axles cost?

Right now I've left it with 1/2 ton running gear so it's a 12 Bolt rear and Dana 44 front. I bought the Dana 44 front end I swapped in for $100. At some point I think I'll probably put 3/4 ton running gear in. I've seen a the front (big hub Dana 44) and rear end (Full float Corp 14 bolt) on craigslist for $300-$500 for the pair.

[silver7]

I remember reading something like that as well. Guess I better weld mine back on!

[msgross]

sorry, I meant driveshaft cost... oops... If you're gonna go big go Dana60 front axle! You can replace the spindle and hubs from an 8 lug front and have a 3/4 ton dana44....

[MyMach5]

I didn't even think to do that type of conversion with the front end...that's a great idea.

The front drive shaft was $295. It's their "heavy duty" model. You can get the "standard" for $265 I think.

Shipping and packaging was $5.

I really liked the guys at Tom Woods Custom Drive Shafts.