Converting 4wd opinions - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

RocketKing · 10-07-2018, 06:23 PM

Howdy all, I recently bought a running 1971 lwb 4wd. I want to make it a swb, I also have a good 2wd swb frame. Would it be better/easier to cut the 4wd frame or swap/convert the 2wd frame? Thanks

franken · 10-08-2018, 02:39 AM

Maybe take a look at the spring perches on both frames? Remember the VIN is stamped on the frames? Bolts and rivets aren't the same.

mcmlxix · 10-08-2018, 06:25 AM

I am pretty sure that the rear of the 2WD frames curve out for the coil spring rear where the 4WD frames are straight to accommodate the leaf sprung rear. GMC vs Chevrolet may change this scenario as GMC came with rear leafs on the 2WD. There is also the VIN issue that some states require the fame VIN and body VIN to match. If not they can impound the vehicle.

Mudder · 10-08-2018, 07:02 AM

I think shortening the frame would be the best option. I think classic sells everything you need to do it and instructions. You'll have to shorten the driveshaft and some brake lines. Someone posted these pictures years ago.

Mudder · 10-08-2018, 07:03 AM

I believe there was a plate welded to the inside of the frame for strength.

RocketKing · 10-08-2018, 11:55 PM

After more researching it is correct that there are minor frame differences. I also think shortening is the best option. Thanks guys!

10-07-2018, 06:23 PM	#1
RocketKing Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Berryville, AR Posts: 792	Converting 4wd opinions Howdy all, I recently bought a running 1971 lwb 4wd. I want to make it a swb, I also have a good 2wd swb frame. Would it be better/easier to cut the 4wd frame or swap/convert the 2wd frame? Thanks __________________ Rex

10-08-2018, 02:39 AM	#2
franken Registered User Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Somewhere Posts: 3,052	Re: Converting 4wd opinions Maybe take a look at the spring perches on both frames? Remember the VIN is stamped on the frames? Bolts and rivets aren't the same.

10-08-2018, 06:25 AM	#3
mcmlxix Collector of Projects Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 3,106	Re: Converting 4wd opinions I am pretty sure that the rear of the 2WD frames curve out for the coil spring rear where the 4WD frames are straight to accommodate the leaf sprung rear. GMC vs Chevrolet may change this scenario as GMC came with rear leafs on the 2WD. There is also the VIN issue that some states require the fame VIN and body VIN to match. If not they can impound the vehicle. __________________ Rich 1972 K5 Blazer CST Click HERE D60 BIG BRAKE UPGRADE Click HERE

10-08-2018, 07:02 AM	#4
Mudder Registered User Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,339	Re: Converting 4wd opinions I think shortening the frame would be the best option. I think classic sells everything you need to do it and instructions. You'll have to shorten the driveshaft and some brake lines. Someone posted these pictures years ago. Attached Images

10-08-2018, 07:03 AM	#5
Mudder Registered User Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,339	Re: Converting 4wd opinions I believe there was a plate welded to the inside of the frame for strength.

10-08-2018, 11:55 PM	#6
RocketKing Registered User Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Berryville, AR Posts: 792	Re: Converting 4wd opinions After more researching it is correct that there are minor frame differences. I also think shortening is the best option. Thanks guys! __________________ Rex



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