The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks 1978 C10 parts for my 1965 C10

Can anyone advise me on what if any parts I can take from a 1978 C10 donor to place on my 1965 C10? My interest is in possibly using the engine, transmission and rear end.... could that be accomplished easily?
Also thinking steering column, pedals, maybe other items....even the bed. Is there a source for me to find out what will swap?

Easily... well that kind of depends on your skill level.

The rear axle on the '78 is wider than your '65 and the spring perches would need to be removed and replaced with the 1963-1966 style.

What engine is in the '78? Original, I6, V-8?

What transmission is in the '78? Original, automatic TH350, TH400, stick shift 3 speed or 4 speed, column shift or floor shift?

All these questions would need to be known for us to help in any detail.

You could also swap the entire front suspension in if you want, just depends on how much time and effort you want to put into it.

Hey! You're the best! Thanks for the reply. My main interest in the 78 is the somewhat new 350 crate motor in it, and the "built turbo 400 trans" that is in it. Since my truck has a straight 6, I was wondering if the 78 dif might be needed too... if I go with the V8. Maybe my existing rear axle will work with a gear change? Not sure what I would need for a driveshaft either. Also wondered if I can easily use the automatic pedals in my now 3-speed truck when I use the Turbo 400.... and maybe even the steering column with the column shifter... Seems like the 78 offers a lot.. but I need to know the parts can be easily adapted to my 65. One more question is.... do you think my wife will kill me if I bring home another non-running truck?

Your stock pedals should be fine, just remove the clutch pedal. However, you might take a look at using the booster and master cylinder from the '78 if you do the crossmember swap. If you don't go with the swap, the stock rear will be fine behind that V8. In fact, it's actually a stronger rear than what is in the '78 (8.875" ring gear in the '65 vs a 8.5" gear in the '78). Even if you do go ahead with the crossmember swap, the axle shafts from the later rear can be used in the older housing by having the cut down to matching length, then having the C clip grooves recut. Than all you would need to do is use the later style drums to get the matching bolt pattern.

Don't get us in the middle of that