Anyone put a '60-'66 body on a '99-'06 4x4 frame?

[padresag]

Originally Posted by LuckyLightning

Thanks guys, you've given me a lot to think about.


Padresag, I would prefer not to move the engine if possible. I've done a swap on a '95 and while it's surely more complicated on the newer model, I would still prefer not to do it again on any vehicle unless I am doing a frame-off resto. However I do see the value with hooking up a picker and using it to "brace" the engine (hold it in place on the frame) while swapping the front suspension.

there were reasons for what I say and understand what you are saying about the 95; there are more things to unhook and put back together which may look quite challenging to a novice
1 is the safety factor of those things hanging above you while you are working under them.your more than likely going to have the vehicle on stands, your going to need something to re and re the front end(lifting it and then you are going to have a motor hanging over top of that
2 removing engines in older vehicles is not that big of a job. it then makes it saafer to work under and no other lifts to get in your way. you now have all of that room and accessibility to work aroud. you can get in there much easier with a power washer and do a much better job of cleaning all the crap out which makes it much nicer and easier to do the job
ron

[padresag]

Originally Posted by LuckyLightning

With the difference in frame dimensions, would the suspension of an '80 4x4 (front leaf springs) bolt up to a '63? Or would the leaf springs need to be welded to the frame? Is the width the same?

I imagine the steering linkage, power box, etc. will need to have additional parts purchsed to make them match up.

there are a couple of good threads on the forum about this type of conversion 1 of which is Jon's suburban and there is another of a friend of mine who is doing that conversion which I posted. remember on a 4 x 4 conversion to a chev you will also have to convert the rear to leaf springs
ron

[Captainfab]

Here is the link to Jons 4x4 conversion on his '64 Suburban. This will give you an idea on what is involved in the conversion.

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=448681