Crazy or Should I Switch my 72 lwb 4x4 for an 85 swb 4x4? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

avejoe · 01-05-2005, 12:34 AM

Any thoughts on why I should/shouldn't switch from my 72 lwb GMC 4x4 to an 85 swb GMC 4x4?

85: air, good paint and body, interior nice, NO RUST!, stock, 127K miles, two tanks. Better than single digit mpg (I hope).

72: Fewer on the road, poster child for smog controls, poor brakes if you've been following my posts, moderate cab rust per California standards (mint back east I hear), needs body work/paint to make presentable. Gots 69-72 tow hooks and soon to have a tach dash.

Anybody know of any major gremlins in 85 trucks?

Financially, I think I could get around $3k for the 72. I would need that plus $1.5k to cover the 85. I think I would be $ ahead in 12 months though at the rate I'm putting $ into the 72.

Am I nuts or should I?

Longhorn Man · 01-05-2005, 12:49 AM

Personally, I'd never even consider it.

**kwmech** · 01-05-2005, 12:53 AM

Yeah, I think your crazy. I wouln't consider it either.

68w/sbc406 · 01-05-2005, 02:18 AM

i agree with above. here in portland, i would have to deal with DEQ, and thats no fun with a truck, unless its brand new

whitesswj · 01-05-2005, 02:21 AM

consider? what's to consider? um a trade a 72 for a 85. unless he's giving you money in the deal there shouldn't be any considering.

nuff said.
sswj

4x4Poet · 01-05-2005, 03:05 AM

Didn't you notice the difference between the swelte, stylish lines of your 72 and the fat, boxey lines of that 85?

dyingdeadman · 01-05-2005, 03:52 AM

67-72's just look better

Longhorn Man · 01-05-2005, 05:45 AM

besides, if you get a 73 - 87, you'll be nothing but an average joe.

Those things are as common as parking lot gravel.

Besides, if you get T-boned by a citation with a park inducer in front to simulate a light bulb being on and shattering...

**special-K** · 01-05-2005, 08:58 AM

Put the $1500 into your`72.Did anyone mention Chicks dig them?Don`t let the rust bother you.It`s slow to grow in CA and won`t come back in a hurry either,if you do fix it.And,if you do,you`ll have a bichin`truck.`85`s are no spring chickens.They are lookin`classy these days,being a couple of styles back now.They are built basically the same as our earlier trucks and they are the last chance to get a good ol`4wd IMO.Giving up the better looks of the `72.You gotta admit,they nailed it with the 67-72 body design.Looks aren`t everything and if you need to make a practicle decision and what you are considering seems practicle(I know,it`s a sad day),then go for it.You crazy s.o.b.

67ChevyRedneck · 01-05-2005, 09:13 AM

The only benifit I could see would be that the '85 most likely has OD, I think GM started adding to every vehicle around '83. I hear fuel is really expensive in cali...it's currently 1.54/gal here. Personally, I'd keep the GMC. Not nearly as many GMC's around as Chevys, especially 4X4! There is also a lot of smog crap that can break and a lot of extra crap under the hood on the '85. I think you know what to do

**Stocker** · 01-05-2005, 09:51 AM

IMO, 73-87s have no charm, no character, nothing to make them lovable, while the 67-72s ooze personality. Remember, an '85 is still an old truck and will require maintenance and repairs - and will have more complexity and be harder to work on - not to mention the smog equipment.

Keep the '72, fix the brakes, you'll be much happier. If you can't fix it, sell it and buy a better 67-72.

$.02

ChevyDude · 01-05-2005, 11:47 AM

Consider it???? NEVER!!!!

Mudder · 01-05-2005, 11:58 AM

Well you will end up working on both............... so............ the older truck is easier and cheaper to work on.

avejoe · 01-05-2005, 01:57 PM

Hmm, there seems to be a slant to the responses...

I was thinking you guys on the 67-72 Board could be impartial. I guess I was wrong.

ChevyDude · 01-05-2005, 02:28 PM

Impartial, is not the issue. What you are asking the 67-72 guys is like asking a guy who absolutely LOVES a pastrami sandwich to trade it for a peanut butter and AVERAGE jelly sandwich....gosh I must be hungry LOL!!!!

**StingRay** · 01-05-2005, 02:42 PM

Don't do it.

Dean · 01-05-2005, 03:05 PM

I have several 71-72s and an 85 so I can understand what everybody else is saying. I agree that they will both need work...don't forget that even an 85 is now 20 years old.

I would imagine that drivetrain is much heavier duty in your 72? NP205 transfer case vs some cheapy in the 1/2 ton 85. I'm sure the rest of the drivetrain in the 85 doesn't stack up either. My 85 has a hydraulic clutch which is a piece of crapola.

I like both models but the 72 has more character. I am starting to get more attention everyday with my 85 since it is a clean rust free truck. They are about gone around here.

**special-K** · 01-05-2005, 08:54 PM

Try asking your question on the the 73-87 board.See what happens.

*Randy70C-10* · 01-05-2005, 09:07 PM

Hmmmm, would you trade Metallica for some disco?

badpeanut · 01-05-2005, 09:28 PM

As Dean mentioned, the '85 has a NP208 transfer case (chain drive aluminum case). It is fine, but the NP205 in your '72 is better. The '85 has a 10-bolt rear end. Again functional, but the 12-bolt in your '72 is better. The '85 probably had a smog equiped 305 engine originally. Functional, but your '72 had better. See the pattern?

The '85 is a nice truck, but I wouldn't trade if I were you.

avejoe · 01-05-2005, 09:53 PM

Ok, Ok!

First of all there is no need to be rude and ask if I would trade for some disco. That is just wrong.

I have sobered up and passed on the 85 idea. I was temporarily seduced by the rust free, air conditioned, straight body paneled, dark side.

I have let go of my hate, Obi Wan.

Warts and all, I will stick with the 72.

Thanks guys.

*Randy70C-10* · 01-05-2005, 10:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by avejoe

First of all they is no need to be rude and ask if I wold trade for some disco. That is just wrong.

Sorry

**special-K** · 01-05-2005, 10:06 PM

Hey Randy,I didn`t take you for an ol`Disco Duck.I figured you`d have all that southern-rock that was thrivin`at the same time.Good luck gettin`rid of that!!See me smilin`?

Rod · 01-05-2005, 11:28 PM

In 12 month that 72 is still gonna be worth more in parts than the 85 typically.

*Randy70C-10* · 01-06-2005, 12:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by special-K

Hey Randy,I didn`t take you for an ol`Disco Duck.I figured you`d have all that southern-rock that was thrivin`at the same time.Good luck gettin`rid of that!!See me smilin`?

I'm all about Southern Rock, in junior high my favorite band was Molly Hatchet. Now my favorite band (of all time) is Iron Maiden.

01-05-2005, 12:34 AM	#1
avejoe Custer had a plan too. Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: No. California Posts: 344	Crazy or Should I Switch my 72 lwb 4x4 for an 85 swb 4x4? Any thoughts on why I should/shouldn't switch from my 72 lwb GMC 4x4 to an 85 swb GMC 4x4? 85: air, good paint and body, interior nice, NO RUST!, stock, 127K miles, two tanks. Better than single digit mpg (I hope). 72: Fewer on the road, poster child for smog controls, poor brakes if you've been following my posts, moderate cab rust per California standards (mint back east I hear), needs body work/paint to make presentable. Gots 69-72 tow hooks and soon to have a tach dash. Anybody know of any major gremlins in 85 trucks? Financially, I think I could get around $3k for the 72. I would need that plus $1.5k to cover the 85. I think I would be $ ahead in 12 months though at the rate I'm putting $ into the 72. Am I nuts or should I? __________________ 72 K15 GMC (aka Big White) Performance Rockers, Cab Corners, and Floors Fossil Fuel Glutton Neighborhood Nuisance 98 BMW 540i for Speed (Sold ) 05 Subaru Outback for mileage

01-05-2005, 02:18 AM	#4
68w/sbc406 Got Light Emitting Diode? Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Newberg, OR Posts: 2,485	i agree with above. here in portland, i would have to deal with DEQ, and thats no fun with a truck, unless its brand new __________________ 1968 1/2 ton 2wd lwb 6 lug disc and bags up front. Next c notch and rear bags '02 Chevy Silverado LT ext cab short bed 2WD 5/7 drop on 22's(the family car) 1993 Cherokee work ride/weekend wheeler

01-05-2005, 02:21 AM	#5
whitesswj Embrace the Redneck Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Cabot, AR Posts: 1,334	consider? what's to consider? um a trade a 72 for a 85. unless he's giving you money in the deal there shouldn't be any considering. nuff said. sswj __________________ '01 Camaro *Son, you just can't get there from here...*

01-05-2005, 03:05 AM	#6
4x4Poet Registered User Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: "Under Montana skies." Posts: 1,836	Didn't you notice the difference between the swelte, stylish lines of your 72 and the fat, boxey lines of that 85? __________________ '71 GMC K20 Suburban, '71 GMC K10 Suburban, '72 Chevy C10 CST Suburban, '72 Chevy K20 clunker pickup.

01-05-2005, 03:52 AM	#7
dyingdeadman Registered User Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: san marcos,tx Posts: 266	67-72's just look better __________________ 72 GMC sierra 3/4 ton 402 bb 68 GMC 3/4 ton 2010 camaro rs: daily driver

01-05-2005, 12:49 AM	#2
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	Personally, I'd never even consider it.

01-05-2005, 12:53 AM	#3
kwmech Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Colfax-California Posts: 8,483	Yeah, I think your crazy. I wouln't consider it either.

01-05-2005, 05:45 AM	#8
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	besides, if you get a 73 - 87, you'll be nothing but an average joe. Those things are as common as parking lot gravel. Besides, if you get T-boned by a citation with a park inducer in front to simulate a light bulb being on and shattering...

01-05-2005, 08:58 AM	#9
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,862	Put the $1500 into your`72.Did anyone mention Chicks dig them?Don`t let the rust bother you.It`s slow to grow in CA and won`t come back in a hurry either,if you do fix it.And,if you do,you`ll have a bichin`truck.`85`s are no spring chickens.They are lookin`classy these days,being a couple of styles back now.They are built basically the same as our earlier trucks and they are the last chance to get a good ol`4wd IMO.Giving up the better looks of the `72.You gotta admit,they nailed it with the 67-72 body design.Looks aren`t everything and if you need to make a practicle decision and what you are considering seems practicle(I know,it`s a sad day),then go for it.You crazy s.o.b. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

01-05-2005, 09:13 AM	#10
67ChevyRedneck Hittin E-Z Street on Mud Tires Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Greenville, SC Posts: 23,090	The only benifit I could see would be that the '85 most likely has OD, I think GM started adding to every vehicle around '83. I hear fuel is really expensive in cali...it's currently 1.54/gal here. Personally, I'd keep the GMC. Not nearly as many GMC's around as Chevys, especially 4X4! There is also a lot of smog crap that can break and a lot of extra crap under the hood on the '85. I think you know what to do __________________ Jesse James 1967 C10 SWB Stepside: 350/700R4/3.73 1965 Ford Mustang: 289/T5-5spd/3.25 Trac-Loc 1968 Pontiac Firebird: Project Fire Chicken! 2015 Silverado Double Cab 5.3L Z71 2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4.0L 5spd 2020 Chevrolet Equinox Premium 2.0L Turbo 2011 Mustang V6 ~ Wife's ride American Born, Country by the Grace of God 1967 CST Shop Truck Rebuild! My 1967 C-10 Build Thread My Vintage Air A/C Install Project "On a Dime" Trying my hand at Home Renovation! 1965 Mustang Modifications!

01-05-2005, 09:51 AM	#11
Stocker 20' Daredevil (Ret) Join Date: May 2003 Location: Jefferson State Posts: 13,582	IMO, 73-87s have no charm, no character, nothing to make them lovable, while the 67-72s ooze personality. Remember, an '85 is still an old truck and will require maintenance and repairs - and will have more complexity and be harder to work on - not to mention the smog equipment. Keep the '72, fix the brakes, you'll be much happier. If you can't fix it, sell it and buy a better 67-72. $.02 __________________ - Mike - 1972 K20 LWB 350/350/205 RIP El Jay

01-05-2005, 11:47 AM	#12
ChevyDude Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Westminster, CO Posts: 3,071	Consider it???? NEVER!!!! __________________ Alex 1971 Lil' Red 350 SBC 700R4

01-05-2005, 11:58 AM	#13
Mudder Registered User Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,336	Well you will end up working on both............... so............ the older truck is easier and cheaper to work on.

01-05-2005, 01:57 PM	#14
avejoe Custer had a plan too. Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: No. California Posts: 344	Hmm, there seems to be a slant to the responses... I was thinking you guys on the 67-72 Board could be impartial. I guess I was wrong. __________________ 72 K15 GMC (aka Big White) Performance Rockers, Cab Corners, and Floors Fossil Fuel Glutton Neighborhood Nuisance 98 BMW 540i for Speed (Sold ) 05 Subaru Outback for mileage

01-05-2005, 02:28 PM	#15
ChevyDude Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Westminster, CO Posts: 3,071	Impartial, is not the issue. What you are asking the 67-72 guys is like asking a guy who absolutely LOVES a pastrami sandwich to trade it for a peanut butter and AVERAGE jelly sandwich....gosh I must be hungry LOL!!!! __________________ Alex 1971 Lil' Red 350 SBC 700R4



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01-05-2005, 02:42 PM	#16
StingRay Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Saskatoon,SK,Canada Posts: 2,476	Don't do it. __________________ Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada

01-05-2005, 03:05 PM	#17
Dean Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2000 Location: Cincinnati, Ohio Posts: 1,492	I have several 71-72s and an 85 so I can understand what everybody else is saying. I agree that they will both need work...don't forget that even an 85 is now 20 years old. I would imagine that drivetrain is much heavier duty in your 72? NP205 transfer case vs some cheapy in the 1/2 ton 85. I'm sure the rest of the drivetrain in the 85 doesn't stack up either. My 85 has a hydraulic clutch which is a piece of crapola. I like both models but the 72 has more character. I am starting to get more attention everyday with my 85 since it is a clean rust free truck. They are about gone around here.

01-05-2005, 08:54 PM	#18
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,862	Try asking your question on the the 73-87 board.See what happens. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

01-05-2005, 09:07 PM	#19
Randy70C-10 Account Suspended Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: Virginia Beach, Va. U.S.A. Posts: 15,320	Hmmmm, would you trade Metallica for some disco?

01-05-2005, 09:28 PM	#20
badpeanut Not a bad nut after all.. Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: ND Posts: 1,756	As Dean mentioned, the '85 has a NP208 transfer case (chain drive aluminum case). It is fine, but the NP205 in your '72 is better. The '85 has a 10-bolt rear end. Again functional, but the 12-bolt in your '72 is better. The '85 probably had a smog equiped 305 engine originally. Functional, but your '72 had better. See the pattern? The '85 is a nice truck, but I wouldn't trade if I were you.

01-05-2005, 09:53 PM	#21
avejoe Custer had a plan too. Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: No. California Posts: 344	Ok, Ok! First of all there is no need to be rude and ask if I would trade for some disco. That is just wrong. I have sobered up and passed on the 85 idea. I was temporarily seduced by the rust free, air conditioned, straight body paneled, dark side. I have let go of my hate, Obi Wan. Warts and all, I will stick with the 72. Thanks guys. __________________ 72 K15 GMC (aka Big White) Performance Rockers, Cab Corners, and Floors Fossil Fuel Glutton Neighborhood Nuisance 98 BMW 540i for Speed (Sold ) 05 Subaru Outback for mileage Last edited by avejoe; 01-05-2005 at 10:13 PM.

01-05-2005, 10:06 PM	#23
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,862	Hey Randy,I didn`t take you for an ol`Disco Duck.I figured you`d have all that southern-rock that was thrivin`at the same time.Good luck gettin`rid of that!!See me smilin`? __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

01-05-2005, 11:28 PM	#24
Rod Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Eastern - Manitoba Canada, Winnipeg Posts: 4,369	In 12 month that 72 is still gonna be worth more in parts than the 85 typically. __________________ Senior active founding member. 70 3/4 ton GMC Suburban 4x4 250/4 spd. 71 1/2 ton Suburban Chevy 4x4, 350/350 72 Chev 1 ton tow truck 402BB w/Holmes 440 wrecker on propane 2005 FLSTSCI Harley Springer 85 FXSB Harley Lowrider 72 Triumph 650 Bonneville 5spd "Poor people don't have hobbies" Quote from wife.

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