2wd to 4wd conversion 71 chevy cheyenne

[1mitch4]

Hey guys and gals, I'm new to the forum, owned the truck for 13 years and I'm wanting to convert my cheyenne super to 4wd. I have attached some pics after paint last year. First time painting and first vehicle, came out ok, but going to do a big overhaul this year with the conversion, funding permitting. I have some questions for you builders on here. I have been doing some research about the swap and how to do it. I can't locate a frame, but I have a guy that I know that owns the local junkyard says he has a front section off of a 68 for the hangers and springs, possibly diff. Now what will I run into with the older front section, can anyone fill me in. Are the springs any diff, or any other probs. Another question I have: my truck is a rear trailing arm set up and I'm going to springs, but I'm leaning toward later model stuff, being that he doesn't have anything from the rear, and I have access to tons of later stuff. Now I know the springs are wider and the perches will have to be narrowed (I think), but what about the hangers as far as size and setup, same or not, and the arch, I'm thinking that it is a little different on the later trucks. Thanks for your time guys and can't wait to get this thing done!

[MikeJones16]

Damn thats a nice truck. Keep looking for a frame.. Soo much easier to work with instead of cutting the front clip and welding. plus you'll need to cut up your floor a bit.

[1mitch4]

Yeah I agree, I have an aunt and uncle that have a factory 4x4 that has sat for years, I'm thinking of hitting them up to buy it, swap frames and build another 2wd out of my frame and their body. Thanks for the compliment. I'm getting ready for a new paint job that will really shine hopefully.

[1mitch4]

Went over to visit a friend today to see about some parts. He just so happens to have everything (in stock he says) for the conversion. Has a frame, but it is pretty bad shape minus the rear hangers and springs, but he has a 2wd with rear leafs. crossmembers, driveshafts, 205 transfer case with adapter, and on and on. He also was so kind as to give me a set of heads with a set of roller rockers on them, SWEET!!! Also he is gonna be kind enough to let me use his shop and tools. I have my own, but no shop, so I'm pumped...

[onebadbowtie]

Now all you got to do it get to work and remember lots of pictures

[1mitch4]

Yeah, I just can't decide how to go about doing it. I was thinking of using the 4wd frame, but we realized at the last minute it was broke into on the pass side behind the cab. Not a major deal, but enough to start weighing options. I would still have to fab rear hangers on the rear of either frame, I just wouldn't have to do a complete cab swap if I used mine. I'm thinking of sticking with my frame and going that route, using later model hangers with a set of 3/4ton springs in rear. I want a beefy suspension so to speak, but nothing crazy. I'm pretty sure the 4wd frame has 3/4ton front springs anyway. I'm baling hay all summer so this build will just be a parts gather for now until prob late july or Aug. Wish me luck!!

[1mitch4]

Hey, I'm looking to sell a lot of my 2wd stuff to start funding the project, like 10bolt 5 lug rear end, coil springs, disc brake front, etc...

[onebadbowtie]

Have you looked at ORD or any of the other online offroad parts stores. they sell some killer stuff that may interest you.

http://www.offroaddesign.com/catalog/shacklekit.htm

[Gene]

Originally Posted by 1mitch4

. I would still have to fab rear hangers on the rear of either frame

I have a set of rear hangers I bought for mine off a 2wd 3/4 ton GMC. They should be what you need to convert your rear to springs. I'll give them to you if you pay for the ride.

[1mitch4]

Sweet let me know what it would be to 65571

[Gene]

Originally Posted by 1mitch4

Sweet let me know what it would be to 65571

Will do, gotta work nights all weekend and mon. Will find out.

[1mitch4]

If they are for a 2wd they are different. 4wd hangers are taller and mount at a different angle. I can't really tell, but I'll take them anyway. I can make them work!!

[Gene]

Originally Posted by 1mitch4

If they are for a 2wd they are different. 4wd hangers are taller and mount at a different angle. I can't really tell, but I'll take them anyway. I can make them work!!

Yes, they are different. But if you want leaf springs on the back these are what you need to make a 2wd truck a leaf truck.

[1mitch4]

Hey Gene, I'm going to go with the 4x4 frame and mount a set from a later truck. I'm going with 3/4ton axles anyway, so I'm going to put the heavy springs in the rear. I figure I'm going to build it with the diffs so I might as well have the springs. I appreciate the offer and maybe sometime I'll be able to extend one to you!!

[Gene]

Originally Posted by 1mitch4

Hey Gene, I'm going to go with the 4x4 frame and mount a set from a later truck. I'm going with 3/4ton axles anyway, so I'm going to put the heavy springs in the rear. I figure I'm going to build it with the diffs so I might as well have the springs. I appreciate the offer and maybe sometime I'll be able to extend one to you!!

Not a problem, i've had parts paid forward to me several times, just trying to give some back. The frame option is a better way IMHO anyways. Good luck!

[1mitch4]

yeah, I just need some good time and get over to my friends house and get started!!

[1mitch4]

Well back to the friend for some more checking a measuring. 4x4 frame is a no go, junk. It does have good hangers and springs on the front so I can use those along with the crossmembers. He has two 2wd rear spring frames that I'm leaning toward for the frames. I can just mount the front end and crossmembers in the 2wd frame and go from there. My only concern is, how to get the ride height right for the rear of the truck having 2wd leafs and hangers. Also checked the heads that he gave me: a set of 461 castings with roller rockers....

[1mitch4]

Well got to checking some things in the truck and after a comp check, found out that cylinder 4 has a burnt valve. So I guess I'll be doing some motor work before I intended too. Guess I'll be checking out the freeby heads and going from there...

[1mitch4]

Well fuelie heads along with a lunati 68 cam kit going in this next week. I haven't decided on the 4wd conversion, I might ditch that idea not sure yet!

[McNugget]

Hey I live in Springfield, Mo and I have a 72 4x4 Frame for sale!! It might be a lot easier for you to use it!! just let me know if your're interested!