The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Tons 'o Fun Converting 48 1 Ton to 1/2 Ton

Here is where I'm heading unless someone has better suggestions. I just recently acquired a 48 3800 with wood flat bed, updated interior, restored cab and fresh paint. Original drive train, motor has a knock. Wish list, v8, new wheels, lower but not slammed, shorten frame and add 6 ft bed and rear fenders. We also just found a 48 1/2 ton, lots of body rust, no motor, rear fenders and bed in ok shape for about $200.
I'm thinking, take the 1/2 ton, pull the cab and drive train and sell for parts, restore rear fenders and bed, add v8, auto, modern rear end, dual reservoir brakes, IFS and when done take my 1 ton body and put it on the 1/2 ton chassis and sell my 1 ton chassis for parts. Any reasons why this won't work? I can still drive the 3800 while doing restoration, I already have a V8 and Auto, when done I'll only have about $5000 in the whole project less anything I get from the parts.

Welcome to the bolt and congratulations on what appears to be an ambitious project. It sounds to me like you have an idea of where you want to end up and the type of truck you want which is great. A few comments as to parts for these projects, you will find everything you need for your type of conversion for the 3100 and nothing for the 3800. IFS, wheels, mounts etc., are all readily available for the 3100 and you can build exactly what you describe. If the 48 is as you describe that is a good buy for the truck and parts. There is a huge market for original AD parts and some of the 3800 parts are difficult to source so you should have no trouble selling off what you don't need from both trucks. Good luck, take lots of pictures and any questions or issues you run into post up here for help.

I have titles for both the 1 ton and the 1/2 ton. If I put the 1 ton cab on the 1/2 chassis, which title do I use going forward?

I'm not sure if Washington uses the engine ID as the VIN number or not. I would check with the local DMV, tell them you are planning on switching engines in the 1/2 ton truck, and ask them how it will need to be inspected/licensed.(most states want the vehicle to get inspected by the highway patrol to check for stolen vehicles) There is usually no problem switching the ID plate inside the door frame, which is what I would do. Then you just use the 1/2 ton title. Just my opinion - take it for what it's worth.