Sheet Metal Swap

[Super_Dave]

I came across this complete front end from a 1985 Chevy pickup. Other than the custom aftermarket grill, it is all OEM. It comes complete with chrome bumper, radiator and shroud. He says it was an 86K mile truck and no rust.

Asking $250.

Since it's in that 73-87 window, what all would I need to complete the swap on my '74 C20? I am assuming the core support is there with the radiator. waiting on a reply from the seller.

I searched for some threads where this was done, but I must be using different key words, because I get nothing from the search. Any info would be great... or point me to some threads I can read up on.

[Slammed84]

So you're wanting to put the 80's front clip on a 70's cab?

[Slammed84]

Im not 100% on this, but I've seen it been done before. Im thinking the trickiest part is the hood differences. The 73-80 hood meets right up to the windshield while 81-87 meets a cowl panel that sits against the windshield.
Fenders most likely will bolt up, since you have the core support. But I think the core support mounts just a tad different too, but might be wrong about that.....

In fact I do not stand behind any of the above statements.

Nice front clip though

[wileecoyote427]

need the hood hinges and to add holes where they mount on the cowl the cowl filler panel and to use the bushings for your year of frame bumper brackets and im not sure anout the wiring harness but i have both i want to go the opposite way as you and run the older front end on my stepside

[wileecoyote427]

oh and also the wiper posts are different older ones are to short to be used need the 81-87 posts

[wilkin250r]

My truck actually HAS this swap, but it was done before I acquired it, so my knowledge of the actual swap is limited.

Coyote is correct, you'll need to cut and mount the later-year hinges, I've got a picture somewhere here on this forum but I can't seem to find it just yet.

Yes, the change in the cowl panel will require a change in wiper posts.

One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet is the front horns on the frame. The bumper mounts differently, you'll need to cut the tips off the very front on the frame.

[wilkin250r]

Check out this thread for a few of my pictures for the hinge: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=536137

And several people have references this link: http://coloradok5.com/grilleswap.shtml

[esbstuff]

And the bumper mount thread...

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=514024

[Super_Dave]

Well, I think I am gonna pass on the front clip. I think it will be easier to "customize" what I have rather than do the swap.

Thanks for the insights!