4x4 Frame Swap Options?

[b2948kevin]

Has anyone done a 55-59 conversion to diesel and 4x4? Also, what are the more common frame swap options for accomplishing something like this? Can I put a full size pickup frame under it? Do I need a 4x4 S10? Trailblazer?

I searched and searched this forum and haven't seen this yet. Let me know if I am wrong and I will gladly stand corrected. I would love to find some build threads from people doing this.

I have been working on my first truck build which is a 66 C10 for a little while now, but as usual, I am never satisfied and am already starting to plan out what I want to do next.

[sweet70beast]

Check out OrrieG's thread.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=233305

[OrrieG]

I have been working on a FAQ post on this subject but its on my other computer. I post some info tomorrow. I used 74 K10 transmission, transfercase and axles mounted on my 59 springs and frame.

[akponcho]

OrrieG has a wealth of knowledge on using the stock frame and converting it to 4wd. I just picked up a 75 with a 3/4 ton dana 44 and 14 bolt rear so I'm going to go with Ez-chassis swap kit and use the shortbed 75 frame. I probably won't get to it before winter but hopefully the kit gets here soon so I can take care of all the bracket changes on the 75 frame and do the 57 cab swap this spring.
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[b2948kevin]

Thanks for the information here, guys. I read through all of OrrieG's thread, which took me over an hour . Great ideas and great work! I am certainly going to build one of these, that's for sure.

What are the actual frame swap options though? Has anyone put thought into what frame and running gear would give the best (4x4) ride and most modern suspension features and is easily (or at least doable) swappable under these trucks?

[rgunlock]

I don't have the answer for you, but I'm putting a 59 SWB stepside on a '76 4x4 Blazer frame. Had to lengthen the frame and build pretty tall mounts to keep my bed depth. Might have been a little better off starting with a SWB truck frame but the Blazer was what I had available. If I had to start over, I'd hunt for a flatter frame (less kickup over front and rear axles) to start with.

[OrrieG]

Here are some of the threads on this site I could find that deal with frame swaps.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=398361&page=1
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=427550
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=363018
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=223387

It basically comes down to what you want it to look like (usually how far the tires are offset in or out or relationship of the body to frame and ground) and your level of expertise. Money and time are factors too. I appreciate that my novel was interesting enough to keep you occupied for an hour, I hope you do not feel it was wasted time. I started my conversion in the 80's with no internet and not to many after market parts providers and no desire to swap onto another frame. there were some trucks around that used full size Jeep wagoneer frames.

[b2948kevin]

Thanks so much! Your thread was very interesting and full of value. I really appreciate good build threads.

I am currently getting my 66 to daily driver status with the intention of driving this while I build a 55-59. I am starting to seriously look for parts for the build.

Again, thanks a ton for the frame swap options!

[rsb5772]

You might also try searching on YouTube. There's a few videos of diesels, and one that I know of that's 4wd. Talk with the guys that posted them.
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[waybad]

I am putting ,my TF on a 91 s10 blazer frame,, not sure if I'm going to clip it or stretch the frame,, people say it not wide enough but the frame is actually wider than the stock TF frame,, the front hub2hub is 60" on both trks... other than the raise at the rear it should work for me.. I will take plenty of picts when I get started..