The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Considering upgrading, guaging interest in parts - 1946 2 Ton

I currently have a hot rod 1946 Chevy 2 ton. I am considerng upgrading the front and rear axle, maybe the entire chassis, to some more modern equipment.

My questions are:
Would the original rebuilt front axle be of interest to anyone? New wheel cylinders, wheel bearings (expensive!!!) and rebuilt kingpins.

Rear axle, 2 speed, new wheel cylinders, running just fine now.

Just pondering some possible future upgrades.

GMC 3000 and 3500 (p) have 5/10 on 7.25" bolt pattern, if that matters, they also have power steering and hydroboost brakes, find a whole truck. Wide front fenders will be required, however, I have pair if you wish px. 5/10 bolt pattern is great for stock wheels, tubeless 22.5 wheels are hard to find, perhaps another bolt pattern would be desireable?

Ed

Currently running the original wheels with 9.00-20 tires. Not sure what the future wheel and tire combo might me. I suspect 8 on 6.5 or the larger 70's/80's RV big truck pattern.

You could/should list your parts for sale in the Swap Meet section, if/when they are for sale. (not here)
Start with what you have in them and see if they sell, adjust the price as needed until they do sell.

I wouldn't expect a lot of calls but someone looking to rebuild their axles could be money ahead if yours are done right and are easy to fetch. Add long distance shipping and might not find any buyers.

Good luck,

Try finding a newer good driver & set your cab on that chassis. Something 10/15 years old or newer. That would be a nice up grade. Power steering, independent suspension, power disc brakes. The motor & drive-train/ wheel-tire size will all match as a unit. And you will have all the accessory stuff you will need to get it back on the road. Air-conditioning & most of the wiring should transfer over to. Plus everything will be from one make model. You might have a easier time selling your old drive-train as a complete running chassis? The old frame rails may be worn & tired anyways? I wish I had gone that route when I started my 39 COE project. I'd be driving it already.

I have a 70's 1 ton cab and chassis I could use. I want the keep the 454/th400 I currently have.

The downside is that the current(original with some modifications) rolling chassis is in perfect running and driving condition. As stated above, rebuilt front axle, running 2 speed rear, all new wiring and plumbing. I am kicking myself at the thought of all the work this move may cost me.

Consider driving the truck like it is.
Find another cab and front clip to make your second truck.

Second, keep existing one just as you have fixed it up.

Since you know how to do it, second one will go much faster.

Ed

I have a 2-ton that I use for my business. It is all stock except for the disc brakes I put on the front and the 12V alternator. It gets used weekly and most of my employee's have learned to drive it.

I agree with Grigg and EdPruss above, keep it as is!

I'd leave it be. I have a '50 4100 that I contemplated doing the same thing to - but I decided its 10 times neater in stock form. It draws more attention, too. People are astounded at the originality of it and the fact that the original engine still runs, etc.