New Build Thread for 2wd Conversion

[softballnrd27]

Going to the yard next weekend to start searching for my 2wd SWB frame. Here are some teaser pics:
New 383 kit, block and splayed main caps:

From this:

To something similar to this: (truck belongs to bigarmzz)

[old Rusty C10]

the 4wd dont look bad either but it looks like a great start to a proect keep us updated

[84 400]

neat. I am always getting in and out of the 4x4 thing. they are just so much fun off road in the woods. But after fixing them after every trip out I am glade I have my 2wd to just drive and enjoy

Have fun. If you can't find a frame you might try your local cregslist.

Have fun

[softballnrd27]

I made some progress this weekend. I pulled the motor and front clip. I am going to paint the current motor so the chrome doesn't look so out of place on i a dirty motor. I am rerouting/dressing up the motor compartment wiring. I am going to paint the inner fenders, core support and the firewall. I will have to replace the pass side inner fender bc of rust and the core support as well. I will get those from the yard and while I am there I will also look at the frames and other misc body parts. Here are some pice
Motor out and ready to clean:

and a before pic of the motor compartment:

[joe231]

you can also swap in a 2wd cross member, a 5 lug rear diff, and keep your frame

[softballnrd27]

I am going to the junk yard to get a 2wd crossmember, what is the best way to get the rivets off so I can drop the xmember? I can't bring a torch or any thing like that.

[impalamark]

battery powered sawzall
hammer and large punch and cold chisel

use the sawzall to remove as much of the rivet head as possible
then go to the chisel and finish with the punch

my best advice
MArk

[softballnrd27]

Thanks for the advice.

[454HO]

Originally Posted by softballnrd27

I am going to the junk yard to get a 2wd crossmember, what is the best way to get the rivets off so I can drop the xmember? I can't bring a torch or any thing like that.

There were no rivets on the '77 2wd frame I parted out. The crossmember was just bolted to the frame... after you remove the engine towers, there are 3 bolts along the bottom and 4 bolts on the side of each frame rail. Be carefull, those suckers are heavy.

[N2TRUX]

The only place you will encounter rivets is the springs hangers on the rear.

[softballnrd27]

Awesome, that makes it even easier for me!!

[softballnrd27]

Are 2wd and 4wd stock rear springs the same? I know that the frame mounted shackle hangers are different but what about the springs?

[N2TRUX]

I "think" the 4wd springs are wider. Chris? anyone....anyone?

[softballnrd27]

I know the front springs are 3" wide and the rears are 2.5" wide on the 4wd. Not sure if that helps.