64-65 Frame Question

[Ban1dit]

I am looking to possibly pick up a 65 C10 2wd LWB stepside. I wanted to turn it into a period looking 4wd. My question is are the frames different between the 2wd and the 4wd models or is it just the existence of the a-arms vs. the leaf springs mounts? I was looking at the LMC truck diagram and it has me a bit worried. I have full access to almost any tool that would ever be needed. Let me know what you think.

Thanks

[LILRED66]

Welcome to the forums from Kansas City, KS. First and foremost, congrats on the new rig. Secondly, with the availability of factory 4x4 rolling chassis & running gear, converting a 2wd to a 4x4 is not worth the time and effort necessary to do the swap. A good, used factory rolling gear can be had for $500.00-$800.00 and you have everything you need to build a 4x4. The frame rails have a different profile and rise at each end, so simply putting front and rear axles, divorced transfer case, leaf packs, shackles & drive shafts on a 2wd frame, is way more in labor and material than it would cost to purchase a roller. The suspension are not interchangeable...that being said, anything is possible and you are only limited by your skill set, available time, your pocketbook and the tools necessary to do the swap. Some do the swap, simply for the novelty and the ability to say "yes, I converted a 2wd to a 4x4, come take a look".

In any case, welcome aboard and good luck with your project. Keep us posted with your progress and don't forget to post some photos.

[Fursphere]

I have converted my 66 panel from 2wd to 4wd. Well the frame at least so far


It's a lot of work, but I wanted to keep the original frame. I can give you pictures of everything involved if you want.

[LILRED66]

I am not saying it can't be done...I am simply saying with factory 4x4 rolling stock available you can eliminate a lot of time, effort, parts searching and DMV issues, by working with a factory 4x4 roller.

[Ban1dit]

I know it can be done. Like you said it takes money, time, and effort.

Fursphere please send me pictures, as of right now I am flying blind.

Thanks for ya'lls responses.

[ruffrida2005]

Welcome to the forum. If you have access to all the tools. Man come up to Killeen and help me out with my frame. I need to finish this thing.

And I'm with Lilred fine a 4x4 roller. I'll look up my way and see if I can help you.

[Fursphere]

Originally Posted by LILRED66

I am not saying it can't be done...I am simply saying with factory 4x4 rolling stock available you can eliminate a lot of time, effort, parts searching and DMV issues, by working with a factory 4x4 roller.

I would think swapping frames would cause a lot more issues with DMV than converting a matching frame.

I converted mine because Suburban / Panel Delivery rolling 4x4 frames are not all that common. Hell, guys with 2wd ones seem to thing they're made out of gold or something.

[Captainfab]

The availability of original '60-'66 4x4 frames aren't necessarily that great in all parts of the country. In my area, 4x4's are very popular in the '69 and newer years, but the '68 and older ones are a bit scarce. And I'm tallking about running driving trucks. So depending on the availability in the OP's area, converting a 2wd might be the best option. I also have to agree with the VIN issue with switching frames. Dealing with the state motor vehicle investigator in this area can be a nightmare, and is advised to be avoided if possible.

With that said, I would suggest looking for a '69 and up 4x4 for a parts truck. You would get power steering, disc brakes, and the option of a aftermarket lift kit if desired.

[64bigblock]

listen to lil red 66 ive played with and own a 64 4 x4 origal running gear its mud bogger just buy a 4 x4 frm and youll be much happier