61 suspension swap questions

[mcfarlnd]

I found a 85 chevy truck complete front end with everything i need for the swap for 100 dollars. If I swap to the 77-87 front suspension on my 61 will I be able to retain the 235 straight 6? I have a 5.3 I am building but it's not ready to be put in at this time and i don't have alot of time to do this because I am movin to California in September. Trying to make as much progresss as I can and keep the truck diveable.
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[nachodog2]

I'm sure you can keep it but if you're short on time you can always do it after the move.
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[61_FL_Apache]

I think frame width may be an issue. Other will chime in on that.

[mcfarlnd]

Originally Posted by 61_FL_Apache

I think frame width may be an issue. Other will chime in on that.

Frame width will be an issue??? What exactly do you mean? I'm going off a sticky on this site (http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=366850) Are you talking about the K member fitment?
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[Captainfab]

You could keep the 235 after the suspension swap. You would just have to have a front motor mount like the original. You could likely utilize the motor mount bracket off of the original crossmember, and either weld it to the '85 crossmember, or modify it to bolt on.

Originally Posted by mcfarlnd

I found a 85 chevy truck complete front end with everything i need for the swap for 100 dollars. If I swap to the 77-87 front suspension on my 61 will I be able to retain the 235 straight 6? I have a 5.3 I am building but it's not ready to be put in at this time and i don't have alot of time to do this because I am movin to California in September. Trying to make as much progresss as I can and keep the truck diveable.
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[iehotrod]

Wait I seem to agree with 61 FL Apache I do believe the width of the frame rails are two different sizes. One example I can give you is I tried using the rear bumber from my 63 on to the 62 and it was way off. I do not have the 63 here other wise I would measure them both. I know the 63-87 is the same size in the front k-member and Ithink 60-62 is the same and you may not be able to use anything from 63-87 k-member if I wrong please correct anyone. I wish both trucks were here today so I can can firm it.

[mcfarlnd]

Well I guess this is why they make torches and welders. If it is too wide I'll just section it. If it is to narrow I will section it and add material as needed. I think I am gonna stick with nacho dog and just do the swap after I move.
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[jonzcustomshop]

Originally Posted by iehotrod

Wait I seem to agree with 61 FL Apache I do believe the width of the frame rails are two different sizes. One example I can give you is I tried using the rear bumber from my 63 on to the 62 and it was way off. I do not have the 63 here other wise I would measure them both. I know the 63-87 is the same size in the front k-member and Ithink 60-62 is the same and you may not be able to use anything from 63-87 k-member if I wrong please correct anyone. I wish both trucks were here today so I can can firm it.

the rear frame is definitely wider on 60-62, however going by markeb01's description , the front is just a bolt and drill affair.