Stock/OEM Question - 4x4 Suburban

[RyanAK]

Hey, gang. In the planning stages for the ‘62 GMC K Suburban. While there will be a few drivetrain upgrades, the plan is for a very stock overall appearance. I have a couple questions on stance or ride height for the 4x4s…

I’ve been cruising the image threads… does anyone have images of this generation 4x4 Suburban that shows a good representation of stock ride height? Sometimes it’s hard to tell in posted photos if the suspension information isn’t in the post. I feel like a lot of the survivors either have suspension mods (lifted) or are sitting on tired springs (sagging).

Were there either factory or dealer options for suspension upgrades on the 4wd Suburbans? I’m thinking along the lines of the later “heavy half tons” which were essentially K10s that sat up like a 3/4 ton. I believe there were some spring options for 2wd Suburbans and maybe panels. Pickups obviously had some options including 2- and 4wd 3/4 ton trucks. Just can’t find anything on the 4x4 Suburbans. I assume this wasn’t a thing.

Finally… right now I’m planning on 750-16 bias plys. That’s about a 32” tire which I feel should have zero fitment issues. My buddy has me considering 900-16 Super Lugs which is a 36” tire popular with the Ford Hghiboy guys. I feel these are no-go unless there’s a lift of some sort. Any knowledge here? I’m not sure how tall some of the optional factory wheel/tire choices went. 8-15s, 7.7-17.5, etc.

I’m trying to collect the relevant period info and data… I’m in the early stages of determining what is “correct”. While this isn’t a true restoration, I do want the truck to appear “right” in a period context. If that makes any sense. My ‘78 K10 Suburban has the look of a late-70s/early-80s truck. I’d like this ‘62 GMC to tell the story of a life worked in the woods.

[factorystock]

This thread should help. 60-66's 66 GMC panel which has been restored to concourse condition. IMO, the best and probably the only one of this calibur in the country or world.https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...+GMC+K10+panel

[RyanAK]

Oh my goodness, that’s an amazing thread! Just… wow. Thanks for pointing me to it. I wouldn’t have looked because “panel”.