'60-'66 Body On A '73-'87 Frame

[Chevyboy02]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

The point we keep leading back to is; there is no point in using the newer frames. Just use the original frame. There is nothing, absolutely nothing to gain using the newer frames.
If anything, it's bass ackwards to not use the original frame.
Just bolt up the newer crossmember, and be done with it.
Not to mention we should keep the matching VIN's.

My frame was wrecked. The entire frame is destroyed. I needed a frame and I found an 83 next door without one spot of rust. Easy decision
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[rvrfoot]

Some one did a little rigging there.

[LostMy65]

You guys do realize the point of this thread isn't for those who Need a new frame. It's for those that think it's the easier route for the upgrades the 2 wheel drive guys want. To swap out the original frame for the upgrades isn't a practical route.

[Mack B]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

You guys do realize the point of this thread isn't for those who Need a new frame. It's for those that think it's the easier route for the upgrades the 2 wheel drive guys want. To swap out the original frame for the upgrades isn't a practical route.

You do realize that the information contained in a thread on a public forum can be used for other purposes than those intended?

This thread has been bumped multiple times over the years, each time by people looking for more information, the most recent by someone who admits they have a damaged frame. I don't see where I'm off topic here

[padresag]

frames are very seldom a problem. most of these swaps are made with boxes on them and most do not alter the w/base to have the tires centred properly which looks a little hokey.
ron

[padresag]

that is what the guy did to this suburban from page one, just drop thr body on the frame and adapted.





and this was a suburban not just a c & c with a flatdeck
bet he didn't spend that much time on it
ron

[Flying Hamster]

Originally Posted by padresag

that is what the guy did to this suburban from page one, just drop thr body on the frame and adapted.



and this was a suburban not just a c & c with a flatdeck
bet he didn't spend that much time on it
ron

Wingnuts???
WINGNUTS!!!
Wow.

[Blue666(2)]

The wingnuts allow quick cab removal for easy cleaning.

[argonaut]

"Robust"

[LostMy65]

You're right, that was rude of me. I apologize.
.
For a 4x4, it may be the simplest route.
But for disc brakes and power steering on a 2wd it's best to use one's original frame.
But yes, it bothers me because those who encourage others to do it aren't giving sound advice.
My 65 is on a 62 gmc frame. I did it after I totaled it in the 80's. I was 18 and didn't know better.

[Mack B]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

But yes, it bothers me because those who encourage others to do it aren't giving sound advice.

I can respect that opinion. If ones frame was solid and they only wanted updated suspension, braking etc, there are definitely easier, less intrusive options, but every situation can't be covered under that blanket statement. I'll use this next quote as my example.

Originally Posted by LostMy65

My 65 is on a 62 gmc frame. I did it after I totaled it in the 80's. I was 18 and didn't know better.

The fact you where able to get your hands on that frame is likely the only reason your truck is still on the road today. While not ideal, if I didn't have any other options for getting my truck back on the road besides a frame swap...I'd take it.

In my opinion someone showing others it is possible to get good results swapping frames doesn't constitute giving bad advice.

[LostMy65]

I surely don't want to get into a pissing match. But I do deserve it.
But for the original purpose of this thread, aligned with what is the purpose for swapping frames, if ones frame is good, there is absolutely no advantage to go to the newer frame. That was the point of my post. Body mounts, frame contour, frame horns, and especially VIN.
But I understand I deserve your method of replies because of my snarky reply to another member.

[Mack B]

Originally Posted by LostMy65

I surely don't want to get into a pissing match. But I do deserve it.
But for the original purpose of this thread, aligned with what is the purpose for swapping frames, if ones frame is good, there is absolutely no advantage to go to the newer frame. That was the point of my post. Body mounts, frame contour, frame horns, and especially VIN.
But I understand I deserve your method of replies because of my snarky reply to another member.

I'm absolutely not trying to get into a pissing match either, and no you don't deserve it.
We are all here for the same reason and we all bring something different to the table. We need to be able to share opinions, experiences and be able to disagree without it turning ugly....we are better than politicians.

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by Mack B

I'm absolutely not trying to get into a pissing match either, and no you don't deserve it.
We are all here for the same reason and we all bring something different to the table. We need to be able to share opinions, experiences and be able to disagree without it turning ugly....we are better than politicians.

Thank you!
My bad.

[rvrfoot]

Oh boy i thought you almost opened a can of worms man.

[karlbenz]

I would never swap to a square body frame for 2 wheel drive. 4wd on the other hand, would do it again in a heartbeat

[LostMy65]

Now this is an interesting swap:
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=688570

.

[LostMy65]

What about our body on a 1999 or newer LS equipped frame?

[padresag]

this is how the fellow compensated for the frame difference on the back end of this one

ron

[LostMy65]

It looks like a 2002 2wd frame would work if you cut your longbed bed down to a medium bed - 119 wheel base.
Pink is our shortbed frame.

[LostMy65]

Someone in these forums used a 2000 Tahoe. for a 67-72.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=688570
I'll see if I can find a Tahoe frame and lay our frame over that schematic.
A Tahoe has a 116" Wheelbase, ours is 115"

[LostMy65]

Here is our frame laid over a 2002 Tahoe Frame.

[LostMy65]

So, if your 2wd 63-66 frame is good, you are further ahead using your own frame and the 73+ crossmember and stuff - because the 73+ frame kicks up too soon under the cab, causing a raised look - which you may like.
If you're doing a 4x4, it may be easier to move your body over to the 73+ frame.
(6 of one / half dozen of the other)
.
.
Another option would be to use a 2000+ Tahoe frame and get the whole package with an LS.
But looking at the thread I linked to the member who used a 2000+ Tahoe with a 67-72, it still looks like a lot of work.
.
For myself, Even if doing an LS swap, If I had my original frame in good condition, with matching VIN, and I was doing a 2wd, I think I'd still just use my original frame.
.
I hope this information helps someone.

[Captainfab]

With the '88+ frames, not only is the side profile different than the '63-'72 frames but the width of the frames is quite a bit wider.

[LostMy65]

Originally Posted by Captainfab

With the '88+ frames, not only is the side profile different than the '63-'72 frames but the width of the frames is quite a bit wider.

Yep, you are correct: