12-05-2017, 08:22 PM | #1 |
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Morrice, MI
Posts: 155
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1987 GMC Grille Swap
So I have a 1987 GMC. I like the grille I have in it, but I feel that this is the first style GMC grille people reach for when they do a 1980s GMC. Also, it's a dual headlight grille; so my truck has an extra set of turn signals . My truck is somewhat original, but I'm just going for what I call the "GM stock" look; I'm using GM parts that would have been available in that era (for example: I'm using bucket seats out of an 80s Suburban).
I was thinking about swapping a 1981-1982 GMC grille setup into it. I love the looks of it, and it will still keep the truck looking original. I would like to find this setup, and hopefully do some swapping to get it (I won't have a use for my grille setup I got now if I get that one). What all would I have to change to make a 81-82 grille work? If I'm not mistaken it's the lower valence, bumper, headlight bezels, and grille; everything else should still work I think. I think I have an extra set of grille turn signals though; I would probably find a way to mount them to the 81-82 grille so I wouldn't have to change out my bumper. My grille was an aftermarket one I got on a trade. The GMC letters were NOS ones I picked up for the grille. The grille is nice, but the bezels have seen better days. Thoughts and comments welcome. Thanks |
12-05-2017, 09:29 PM | #2 |
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Morrice, MI
Posts: 155
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Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
Anyone feel like running an errand for me (half serious)? I found an 81-82 setup:
http://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/pts/...408821047.html |
12-06-2017, 07:04 AM | #3 |
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Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Memphis MI
Posts: 1,851
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Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
The bezels should swap on the 'single large' headlight packages. . But the 'correct' way requires turn signals in the bumpers. Otherwise you get the turns behind the grille which look kind of odd on a single headlamp truck.
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1987 2 ton 1982 250/TH350 beater in progress Dad's 1981 3/4 L6 3 on tree posi and no options, awaiting restoration or scrapping Plus a mess o' tractors |
12-06-2017, 10:00 AM | #4 |
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Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Weare,NH
Posts: 1,592
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Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
A friend of mine and I were discussing this exact swap this weekend, he had picked up an 81-82 core support for his 88 suburban. Apparently the core support is different in that there is no hole for the lower turn signal, not to say you couldn't use a later core support. The trim around the front end is different as well.
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12-06-2017, 11:30 AM | #5 |
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Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Morrice, MI
Posts: 155
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Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
Mkay. I guess I'll have to save up and buy all the parts. Not unless I keep what I got. Anyone got an idea for the parklights in my grille? The only thing I could think of doing with them is making them into fog lights. I kinda was looking at getting rid of my grille setup because it gives me an extra set of parklights. I would take them out, but I don't want to risk snapping the studs off. I was hoping that someone was looking for a dual headlight grille so I wouldn't have to risk ruining a good grille that someone else may be able to use. Thanks
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