3/4 ton vs. 1/2 ton...

[bobbylong]

Newbie questions:

I have always wanted a 67-72 Chevy 4x4 SWB truck since I was in high school and working at a log mill in Idaho. One of the full time guys there had one and I thought it was the coolest thing ever (next to a 68 Camaro). I was born in 71 so I have decided that would be the year I shoot for. Before I ask my questions let me say I am not a mechanic. In fact I know very little about cars or trucks. I grew up in a small redneck town and I can drive like a bat outa hell, but when I breakdown I’m done.

1. What is the real difference between a ¾ ton and a ½ ton (besides ¼ ton)? I’m guessing it’s the suspension and brakes, but is the frame any different?
2. Will the cab off any 67-72 bolt right on a 71 ¾ ton frame?
3. What makes a better daily driver for a guy who never really plans on towing anything, but maybe 68 Camaro on a trailer someday?

The reason I’m asking is I found a 71 ¾ ton Camper Special for a great price. It’s in bad shape but the frame is good and it’s 100% complete. However, the cab is rusted beyond the point of repair. I don’t know if it’s the right truck for me because I’m looking to build a daily driver, and not a work or truck to tow toys.

Thanks for any help,

Bobby

[Vintage Windmills]

Just a tip- you will get more views and responses in the general discussion area. Once you have a truck project, then post in this section.

LWB 4x4's shared the same heavy frame between 1/2 and 3/4's. Not true for 2x4's. I think the swb had a little lighter frame but I'm not positive. Main difference are the axles and brakes.

Cabs are interchangeable but 4x4's, 4spds, and bbc's got a removable "high hump" trans tunnel.

For a daily that wont be used to tow, a swb 1/2 ton should be the ticket. Lwb would be better for towing and 3/4 ton better yet. You probably know, but they never made a swb 3/4.

[bobbylong]

Thanks for the tip, I'll post in the general discussion forum as well, and I actually didn't know that Chevy never made a 3/4 K20 SWB. I very new at this. Is it considered a "sin" to cut a K20 LWB into SWB? Is it even possible? And if so, would it make a good daily driver?

I would love a K10 4x4 SWB, but I think I'm not alone there. They are very hard to find, and the price is usually very high. I have a lead on K20 that seams really cheap, but need a lot of work.

Thanks,
Bobby

[Stocker]

Originally Posted by bobbylong

Is it considered a "sin" to cut a K20 LWB into SWB? Is it even possible? And if so, would it make a good daily driver?

Some people consider it a sin to change anything from stock, but most will say it's your truck, do whatever you want to make it the way you like it. Just don't cut the dash!

Yes, people have turned LWB trucks into SWB, but you started off saying you're no mechanic. I think I'd pass on tackling a project like that. They can be good daily drivers but a LWB is generally better for towing or hauling heavy loads than a SWB. And a SWB K20 might ride a bit worse than a SWB K10 or a LWB K20.

[andrewmp6]

I'm with stocker get you a k20 and enjoy it,A long bed is like 2 or 2 and 1/2 feet longer then a short bed?If you want more of a toy to drive and play with go short bed,If you want a truck to use as a truck long bed is better.And the price around me a long bed 4x4 is cheaper then a short bed 4x4 also.

[special-K]

I like shortbeds,but you can work more with a longbed and they play just fine,too.

[derotoreut]

Originally Posted by special-K

I like shortbeds,but you can work more with a longbed and they play just fine,too.

I like the short beds too (as you can see), but good luck finding a good quality original 4X4 swb (at least around my neck of the woods).

[bobbylong]

Originally Posted by derotoreut

I like the short beds too (as you can see), but good luck finding a good quality original 4X4 swb (at least around my neck of the woods).

Thanks for all the info fellas. I will be looking for a K10 SWB to make my own. However, it appears they are very hard to find in a reasonable price rang. If anyone knows of one please forward the info to me.

Also, has anyone ever cut a K10 LWB into a SWB?

[andrewmp6]

I have seen 2wd long beds cut down to a short bed im sure its about the same just few more steps.If your gonna play off road with it see if you can find a k20 and have better axles from the start.

[mlhand]

I have a '68 K10 4x4 shortbox project truck, a lot of work already done. have pic's and
all . pretty nice truck,just needs to be finished. Call 406-395-5136 or e-mail maynard@itstriangle.com or reply in forum.

[mlhand]

I have a '68 4x4 shortbox project truck for sale. A lot of work already done!
Call me 406-395-5136 if anyone is interested. Have a lot of pic's and info about it! Pretty nice truck a lot of new parts etc.

[bobbylong]

Originally Posted by mlhand

I have a '68 K10 4x4 shortbox project truck, a lot of work already done. have pic's and
all . pretty nice truck,just needs to be finished. Call 406-395-5136 or e-mail maynard@itstriangle.com or reply in forum.

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