81 to 73

[Sodak]

Just bought a 1981 4x4 short box stepside with 4 headlights and want to convert it to the two round style of the 73-79 style. I know all the sheet metal has to change including the hood,rad supprt and bumper. But what else? wiring ? body shims? any help appriciated.

[walkerb]

I would include headlight wiring, bumper, radiator shroud. And figuring out the wipers. If I remember correctly the 80's wiper mounts are too tall? And body mounts are different somehow

[Sodak]

Body mounts too tall?.. does that mean i have to shim the radiator supprort?
And thank you for this info ,as it does help,Need my ducks in a row before i try this .

[walkerb]

Again if I'm remembering correctly the 80's are taller then the 70's.

[Sodak]

Thank you i'll check that out,and if so? change the mounts to 70's spec?

[Your41Plague12]

Originally Posted by Sodak

Thank you i'll check that out,and if so? change the mounts to 70's spec?

The wiper posts are taller, not the body mounts. You'll need to change the wiper posts (the splined part that rotates, the wiper arm presses onto it) to the 73-80 style. Other than that, it's a pretty straightforward swap. The ends of the frame rails at the front bumper are different on a 73-80 truck too. They're not cut at an angle like the 81-87's are, so the factory 73-80 bumper won't bolt up without some fab work. Not sure if the 81-87 bumper will fit with the 73-80 fenders and core support, but even if it did, it wouldn't be correct.

[Sodak]

Thank you.. now i'm sure i'mn going to try this.