How can you tell if it is a true SWB 4x4?

[pryorstemmed]

Hello, looking at a 71 SWB (badged)Cheyenne 4x4. It does not have a SPID and the seat has been recovered, so I doubt there is a build sheet there. The frame has been painted black. The vin starts with CKE141 so it is a 1/2 ton. I have not checked the vin on the frame yet, will that do before I buy. It also has a 350 that was stated to be original. Is there anyway to tell if it is a true SWB? It has Cheyenne emblems but the interior has been customized, so the door panels and headliner are not original. I remember a thread that said to check the holes for the headliner and look for factory oval openings. It has the rear cargo light and a chrome/stainless tailgate handle. Any other things to look for? Thanks for any help guys and gals.

[71blksuper4x4]

The only way with no documentation is to check the frame vin under the cab on the frame rails to see if it matches the truck vin besides checking for any sectioning of the frame. Trevor

[Gene]

Just like Trevor said, the only real way to see if it's a true shortbed is to check the frame for sectioning, really good welders and fabricators will be able to hide the section where the frame has been removed, but I havent seen one yet. I am building a truck now that used to be a longbed but now is a shortbed 4x4. There will be no way to see that it has been converted because I used an actual shortbed frame other than the cab v.i.n. and the frame not matching.

[pryorstemmed]

Thanks Trevor and Gene, that is what I thought. Is there a certain spot on the frame where they were cut more often? Also, if they switched the frame and it is not a true SWB, how much does that affect the cost? He wants around 12K and it is in great shape, no rust, rebuilt and very clean engine, custom interior that I do not like and great hugger orange paint. The only problem is the bed floor is beat up. I do not mind that, I will still use the bed for hauling wood so a spray in liner will do. 12K is pretty high, but with a new interior and removal of the chrome roll-bar will make this a killer truck. I will try to get pics when I test drive it as soon as the weather gets better.

[Gene]

I would say it if they switched the frame it shouldnt effect the price any at all or very little unless it's priced as a numbers matching truck, but unless it's a VERY nice truck 12k sounds pretty high to me. If it has been cut it will be under the cab on the flat part of the frame somewhere, and there will also be some frame cut off the very end of the frame rails.

[pryorstemmed]

Thanks Gene, I will check those places. It is a very nice truck, and has four "best of show" trophies from known shows that come with it. Still not sure if it is 12K nice, I am gonna offer him 8k and might go up to maybe 10K.

[special-K]

That's a '72 VIN with the C before the K. That trim on the tailgate handle is Cheyenne Super. But,they can be switched,also have been and now are reproduced,too. Usually,on a frame shortening there is a splice under the cab,so the rear cab mount will be relocated and no longer factory riveted. Original SWB 4wds will always be worth more than "created" ones

[pryorstemmed]

Originally Posted by special-K

That's a '72 VIN with the C before the K.

My bad, it started with a K, not C. And I will check for the splice and factory rivets. Thanks again Special-K!

[bruceman1968]

Check to see if the model number still on the firewall in grease pencil.

[pryorstemmed]

Originally Posted by bruceman1968

Check to see if the model number still on the firewall in grease pencil.

Yeah I checked that and it has been repainted, no factory marks I also have to look at the rivets on the drivers side VIN plate to see if it has been taken off.