another frame swap question

[craigs55]

I've seen alot of frame swap threads on here, but was wondering about using a 1960 through 1965 frame under a 1955-1957? I know the stepside beds are alike, so why aren't these used more? Is the width different? I am going from a 3/4 ton longbed to a 1/2 shortbed and didn't want to shorten my frame since i'm also going to use a front subframe.

[Russell Ashley]

Can't help with answering your question, but those early 60's Chevy trucks had a torsion bar front suspension. I've always wondered why those don't get more attention. I've had numerous Mopars with torsion bars and I always liked it. My 2002 Suburban has a torsion bar front suspension that looks almost like a copy of the setup that was in a 1957 Desoto that we had.

[craigs55]

Well, I was hoping that someone had an answer to this question. Doesn't anyone out there know of someone using a 1960 -1965 frame under a 1955-1957 truck? Surely someone has tried this before?

[beanyard]

I just saw your thread. Ez chassis swaps sells a kit I think.
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[OrrieG]

One reason might be that the 60-65 guys are using the. Also, no disc brakes, if you are going to go to the trouble of a frame swap why not use the beer that fits well?
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Posted via Mobile Device

[mknittle]

Originally Posted by OrrieG

One reason might be that the 60-65 guys are using the. Also, no disc brakes, if you are going to go to the trouble of a frame swap why not use the beer that fits well?
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Posted via Mobile Device

when i was younger all beer fit well

[craigs55]

Originally Posted by OrrieG

One reason might be that the 60-65 guys are using the. Also, no disc brakes, if you are going to go to the trouble of a frame swap why not use the beer that fits well?
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Posted via Mobile Device

The 60-65 guys are using the ??? I never was very good at those fill in the blank tests.

[OrrieG]

I hate typing on my phone, once I hit send no editing. "them" is what I ment. Don't know about the beer (best?), auto complete got that one. I was trying to say if you are going to the effort to do the swap, use a donor that has the most upgrades built in. 59 to early 60's, in my opinion, is a marginal improvement with the the same or more work than a 70's or maybe 80's. Even better stick with the stock frame and upgrade the front and rear suspensions without the headaches of radiator support and associated front clip alignment issues, lifting bed floors and having to potentially channel the cab steps.