1954 1/2 vs 3/4

[chip46wis]

Can anyone tell exactly what the differences are between the 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton frames.I am looking at a quite clean 3/4 and have been told the length is the only real difference.This truck has a dropped straight axle with disk also for a good price--I just want to make sure all will work and also the rear would be changed also at this time. Thanks chip

[dubds10]

Thickness and height of frame is also different if I recall correctly, but that doesn't really change anything besides it's weight rating. What's your end goal? You can clip it and swap axles just the same as a half ton.

[OrrieG]

Click the link in my signature, scroll down to year index, click your year, then index, then frame info, it will get you to a chart that lists the dimensional differences in the frames.

[chip46wis]

WOW gret info guys! Thank you so very much...My intent was to make this a 1/2 ton as (maybe Im wrong) the 3/4s dont seem to have much interest when selling or nearly as much value----Thank you!!!!!!!!!!

[dubds10]

True the 3/4T market is smaller than the 1/2 swb. You could make the frame into a 1/2T frame with an aftermarket IFS kit up front and matching rear from a Camaro or similar. If the front has a 5 lug drop axle with discs already though, you're half way there to making it a "1/2T". Now the money between a true 1/2T and modified one does differ also as you'll be cutting down the long bed frame to match the shorty dimensions I imagine. Some people don't like chopped frames, others don't care. Depending on what you do you can make it a great truck to sell or a horrible truck to sell lol

[69l46vert]

3/4 ton frame is much more narrow from the cab back. Maybe 10" or so narrower than the 1/2 ton frame.

[whitedog76]

The 3600 frame is longer than the 3100. It's also narrower at the rear. From the back of the cab on forward, the frame is the same as the 3100.

Converting to a 6 lug setup isn't all that involved. Basically, just swap the front axle for a 1/2 ton.

The rearend on the other hand, you'll have to cut and weld the approptiate spring perches. If you want to get rid of the 3/4 ton suspension, then there's cutting, drilling, adding spring perches, etc...

If you want to shorten the bed, there' alot more involved than just cutting the frame and installing a 1/2 ton bed. Of course, there's moving all the rear suspension components. There's C- notching the frame. There's moving/fabricating running board mounts. Not to mention probably a dozen other things I'm not thinking of.

Here's the frame dimension of 54 trucks.

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com...esto/54129.htm

[chip46wis]

I followed OrrieGs lead and found the major differences----I am going to pass on the truck unless I can find a more suitable frame-----Thank you all!!!!!!!

[whitedog76]

Can you give us some more info? Pictures if you got em.

Maybe someone here might be interested.

[chip46wis]

If someone is interested it is listed on C/L Eau claire wis..there is no pics available from him sorry.Good luck

[crossfire84]

before you pass on the truck there are a few of us that have a 3600 on here, building it is no more a problem than anything else check out my build and the others good luck.