Been there done that. Used ORIGINAL frame. If you want automatic and 205 transfer case, like I did, 1980 is the newest year for that combo. Get a donor truck or suburban, Width is OK and can be tweeked with wheel offset. Wheelbase does not matter. Big, Important issue is: Front axle is fixed in same position as orig, therefore the driveline geometry takes you thru the front drive shaft into xfer case, into transmission, onto eng mounts and associated firewall clearance. there is not much room for altering this "fixed" positioning all started by the front axle. It worked for a big block so small block is the same except for front of eng "stickout". Only other Big issue is pinion angle, this is controlled by xfer case mounting and new weld on perches on donor rear axle. Use tranny, xfer case, shaft and fr axle from same donor. Several fab pieces needed re: Power steering box, front spring hangers/shackles, rear spring hangers/shackles and F and R shocks. Advantage: Body fits, gas tank fits, and a lot of other big/little stuff fits because of orig chassis. Bumpers, braces, e-brake, radiator, gas and brake pedals. You also get power steering, power disc brakes, better(tapered roller) bearings,sway bar, etc etc. See pic of my 56GMC carryall.
Last edited by bartamos; 09/16/2009 5:42 AM.
