The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 1954 3800 to 3100 frame swap

I have a 54 3800 tow truck that's in pretty decent shape, I would like to put the cab and front end on a 3100 frame. Will any early 50s frame work? Or do I need a 54-55 frame. Thanks a lot for the help guys

I personally will want to cry if you do that. A 1 ton tow is a fairly unique truck. Maybe not the same value as 1/2 ton. If you want a 1/2 ton, it would be a lot easier to buy one. I see them for sale all the time. What are you going for? A stock 1/2 ton or daily driver/street rod? IF stock and still want to swap, a '54 will have better gear ratio. I don't know if cab mounts changed over the years. If driver/rod, you might as well go with an S-10 frame. You get all updates at once. Sorry if I sound harsh, but I would love to have that '54 intact. If you do the swap, post the rest of it for sale here. I might come get it & put a 1/2 ton cab on it. (joking) ( might still come get it & I'm in CO)

Difference between 1947-1953 VS. 1954-1955 1st series truck Frame Rails.

Difference between 1947-1953 VS. 1954-1955 1st series truck Axle Bump stops .

The 1954-1955 1st series truck bed has a three inch increased in depth.
Therefore GM had to lower the frame rail arch height above rear axle.
You will not be able use the 1954-1955 1st series truck bed on a 1947-1953 frame.
You can but, top of the bed will not lineup correctly with the cab crease line.
Bed will ride High.

Cab mounting also changed somewhere between 1947 and 1955.

Cab mounting changed after 1948. With some holes drilled you can use either mount on either frame.