The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 53 - 54 frame differences

I have been sourcing parts for my 53 1/2 ton and am about to check out a lead on a complete chassis and drive train with a 235. The cab and bed ended up on an s-10 frame. the seller isn't sure if it is a 53 or 54. Can anyone alert me as to if there are any differences in the two years on the frames. Are they interchangeable? I have heard the 54 frame kicks up a little higher over the rear axle and won't accomodate a 53 type bed. When I inspect , is there any quick way visually determine if the frame is 53 or 54? Any help will be appreciated. George

Hy Geo55, the 54/55 frame has an engine rear crossmember with angled mounts and the frame is different in shape behind the cab, but I can't remember exactly how it is different than the earlier frames at the moment. The 53 and earlier frames have an engine rear crossmember that has flat mounts, that is the easiest way for me to identify the different frames.

This might help.. This suggests that there is a difference.

Jim Carter - tech article.
Rear Axle Bumper Change
Error: 1st picture should read 1947 to 1953 instead of 1954 to 1965

More of the same.
Overload Rear Bumpers

The 54 frame flattens out over the rear axle to accommodate the deeper bed.
Engineering features (courtesy tclederman)

Cross member changes
Rear Engine motor mounts (courtesy tclederman)

I think you would run into problems if you put a 54 bed on a 47-53 frame. The 54 bed is 3 inches taller.
As oppose to putting a 47-53 bed on a 54 frame, the 54 frame arch at the axle is lower.

Rear axle bump stops on 47-53 frame are mounted under frame arch.
Rear axle bump stops on 54 frame are mounted on side of frame.

Does the seller have the body from the frame if so then can see if the box sides are flat on top or have the older angle top