1987 GMC Grille Swap
 

So I have a 1987 GMC. I like the grille I have in it, but I feel that this is the first style GMC grille people reach for when they do a 1980s GMC. Also, it's a dual headlight grille; so my truck has an extra set of turn signals :lol:. My truck is somewhat original, but I'm just going for what I call the "GM stock" look; I'm using GM parts that would have been available in that era (for example: I'm using bucket seats out of an 80s Suburban).

I was thinking about swapping a 1981-1982 GMC grille setup into it. I love the looks of it, and it will still keep the truck looking original. I would like to find this setup, and hopefully do some swapping to get it (I won't have a use for my grille setup I got now if I get that one).

What all would I have to change to make a 81-82 grille work? If I'm not mistaken it's the lower valence, bumper, headlight bezels, and grille; everything else should still work I think. I think I have an extra set of grille turn signals though; I would probably find a way to mount them to the 81-82 grille so I wouldn't have to change out my bumper.

My grille was an aftermarket one I got on a trade. The GMC letters were NOS ones I picked up for the grille. The grille is nice, but the bezels have seen better days.

Thoughts and comments welcome. Thanks

Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
 

Anyone feel like running an errand for me (half serious)? :lol: I found an 81-82 setup:

http://kalamazoo.craigslist.org/pts/...408821047.html

Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
 

The bezels should swap on the 'single large' headlight packages. . But the 'correct' way requires turn signals in the bumpers. Otherwise you get the turns behind the grille which look kind of odd on a single headlamp truck.

Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
 

A friend of mine and I were discussing this exact swap this weekend, he had picked up an 81-82 core support for his 88 suburban. Apparently the core support is different in that there is no hole for the lower turn signal, not to say you couldn't use a later core support. The trim around the front end is different as well.

Re: 1987 GMC Grille Swap
 

Mkay. I guess I'll have to save up and buy all the parts. Not unless I keep what I got. Anyone got an idea for the parklights in my grille? The only thing I could think of doing with them is making them into fog lights. I kinda was looking at getting rid of my grille setup because it gives me an extra set of parklights. I would take them out, but I don't want to risk snapping the studs off. I was hoping that someone was looking for a dual headlight grille so I wouldn't have to risk ruining a good grille that someone else may be able to use. Thanks