4x4 conversion

[Jarvis-69 GMC 1500CK]

Hello! Got a 69 GMC 1500 2WD C/K (long box), I wish to make it 4WD, my father says it would be easier to just put the body on a new frame (frame is actually in good condition). Personally I just want to change out the front axle and put a transfer case.

My question is which would be the easiest? finding a good condition 4X4 frame(with running gear and cheapish) which would fit my long box body, or find pretty well any early GM 4X4 parts and "making it work".

My uncle is a master welder on the pipline so any drive line fab im pretty sure he could do up, what are your guys thoughts?

[Dave K.]

Find a beat up 4x4 out west and put the body on that frame...

[GR8-68]

Father knows best, he is right it would be a whole lot easier to find a 4x4 frame and change it then trying to convert a 2x4 frame over but it can be done. The biggest challenge would be finding all the parts to put it together.

[57taskforce]

It's not that hard to put a front axle under one.other than finding the parts,probably the biggest thing is You'll have to fill the ebrake cable holes in the frame so the rear spring mount can be bolted up. There's plenty of people on here who have done it. Is your truck a leaf spring rear suspension? I assume it is being it's a GMC. A square body will get you a front axle, transmission,transfer case etc, but I'd try to find 67-72 leaf spring mounts for the the front springs. It's a bunch of work either way you do it. A 4x4 frame is definitely preferable but there are other options.

[cblock]

I think the 4x4 frame is the easiest way to go, but finding a 4x4 frame is probably as difficult as finding a 2wd short bed frame. The most doable option is going with a front axle from a square body, I believe you would need to move the leafspring perches on the axle being that the 67-72 frames are narrower. Whatever you decide good luck with your project.

[57taskforce]

Originally Posted by cblock

I think the 4x4 frame is the easiest way to go, but finding a 4x4 frame is probably as difficult as finding a 2wd short bed frame. The most doable option is going with a front axle from a square body, I believe you would need to move the leafspring perches on the axle being that the 67-72 frames are narrower. Whatever you decide good luck with your project.

Nope the front axle from a square body is a bolt in.