Making a C-10 into a C-30?

[mcmullinauctions]

Hi,
I have a 1963 C-10 and a 1984 C-30. I'd love a 1963 dually for show, not really for working too much. Will the front crossmember swap as it does on the 1/2 ton models? What about the rear and springs? Is there a frame width difference? Thanks!

[jonzcustomshop]

I am doing the same year , but c-20, the front will definately work, don't know about the rear yet, but I expect to have to change the spring pads.. (leaf) the 63-66 looks narrower than the 84

[aerotruk63]

You could get a C20, originally, with dual wheels and coil spring suspension if you would like to keep it simple. The 1/2 Ton frame could never carry the load, but then it's just for show anyways. LILRED66 picked up an original C20 with duals and coil spring rear.

[mcmullinauctions]

I didn't know there was a frame thickness difference. I had a 61 c-30 and the frame seemed to be the same height and thickness. Would the C-10 frame really be that much weaker?

[jonzcustomshop]

I think the 20's and 30's were thicker... I am using a 66 30 frame in my conversion..

[aerotruk63]

In 1963 Chevrolet changed the thickness's of their frames, but heat treated them. The newer frames were lighter and stronger they claim. Ladder type frame re-enforcements gave it strength and flexibility. They did away with the X frame re-enforcements from the thicker 62 and below. Because of the heat treatment they do not want you welding on the frames for custom applications and coach building.

[mcmullinauctions]

Were the C-30 frames changed in 63 as well or did they stay the same? I think the most I would tow is another car or truck and a c-10 does that without a problem.

[jimmydean]

I know when talking to Nate Porter the C30 frame was taller than the C10/20 and the dfropmember wouldn't work, so I am guessing the C10 crossmember might also have issues. I know my C20 and C10 frames are the same, though.

[padresag]

the c30 may have incorporated the k10-20 frame which is deeper in the mid section.
I do have a c10, k10 and a c30 which I will measure. I know that the k frames are deeper.
though usually the frames will take whatever, most of the weight designation is determined by the suspension, axles and tires
ron

[BIG V]

take the c30 cross member and bolt it in place, now that the suspension is bolted in place with a few holes drilled to make sure it fits correctly. however the rear springs are a different story. you can mount the front spring hangers and make a set of hangers for the rear of the spring. the spring perches could need to be relocated but if your thinking about converting the truck this shouldn't be to much work for you.

You could also remount your cab and front fenders to the 84 frame? just a idea.

[maynardtruckin]

the difference in the frame is the front frame horn for the bumper mounting and the rear spring mounts also sit wider but the the cross member will fit just like the c10's and will only need 2 holes re drilled are rear just move the spring pads in like a 1" and a half and you can re use the c30 springs if you make it a leaf spring setup!

[clemdaddy]

i got 65 c-30 frame for my c-10 cab and clip. then put an 87 c-30 front and rear suspensions in the 65 1-ton frame. also used a 50s bed. i was amazed but everything bolted right up. did have to alter 1 rear shock mount because later model were staggered. i would recommend you try to find a 1-ton 60's frame first.

[aerotruk63]

Nice truck clemdaddy

[lakeroadster]

Originally Posted by aerotruk63

Nice truck clemdaddy

x2

[maynardtruckin]

Originally Posted by clemdaddy

i got 65 c-30 frame for my c-10 cab and clip. then put an 87 c-30 front and rear suspensions in the 65 1-ton frame. also used a 50s bed. i was amazed but everything bolted right up. did have to alter 1 rear shock mount because later model were staggered. i would recommend you try to find a 1-ton 60's frame first.

the c10, c20, and c30 frames are all the same with the exception of extra stiffener brackets.