The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts 6300 Conversion to daily driver??

This is my first post as I am brand new to the Stovebolt online world although I currently own 2 that need some love. My goal is to convert one of my 6300 (I believe it was formerly a fire truck). It runs and drives thanks to some donor parts from the other truck but it's not great or very safe for a daily driver. One thought I had was to to put the cab on a modern chassis with a modern drive train, brakes power steering etc. but I was told a new frame size could be an issue getting the cab to fit but working with the original frame might be a better option. Regardless of which direction I go, my goal is to have this cool old truck be completely functional and safe. I think it would be great to even add 4WD. This vehicle would be used as a promotional and functional delivery vehicle for my brewery located in Northern Michigan. I was hoping the wealth of knowledge on this forum could help guide my path. I wouldn't be opposed to buying a newer GM 3500 + or - chassis cab (without the cab) and put the 6300 on it if would work? Alternatively, I am interested in the options for a new motor, trans, drive train, disc brakes, suspension etc. on the 1950 6300 chassis. Below are pics of my trucks. Both are 50s 6300. The green an white one is the one I want to keep and modify. The other could be parts or I just get rid of it. If anyone out there has any ideas, case studies or otherwise I would love to learn more. Thanks!

WELCOME to the Stovebolt

If those trucks were mine I wouldn't be using either one as a parts donor, they are way to complete to do that to them. If you need parts place a "want ad" in the Swap Meet section.

Installing a modern engine, trans and rear are done all the time, then add disc brakes to your original front axle and your set.

There's a member here that sells front disc brakes kits for the big trucks.

Mike B

Hy Shortsbolt6300, welcome, in a lot of ways switching your trucks body over to a newer chassis is faster,easier and you end up with a safer vehicle. The modern vehicles have a wider track, which if using your stock front fenders will have at least part of the front wheel and tire outside the fender. There are at least two different widths of front fenders for your style of truck, the widest ones should contain the modern wheels and tires. A lot depends on what you expect the truck to be able to do, but converting the truck to modern standards in every way but keeping the old base is a very time consuming process and if you don't have the facilities or the abilities to do most of the conversion yourself it will be a very expensive proposition. I am honestly not trying to turn you off, but rather make you aware!

Do you mean 6400, or 6500 ? Never seen a 6300 series.

Both are nice trucks, I would keep both. You could use the "Coors" one for local beer deliveries if you self distribute.

I stand corrected. These are both 6400s!!!
Thanks so much for the feedback. I am interested in conversion to a modern chassis as I don't have a ton of time or space to chip away with the original chassis. Does anyone have a recommend for what year and make of a chassis would make a good swap. Any road map would be greatly appreciated!

Hi 3B. Do you have any recommendations for a modern chassis?

Howdy folks. I'm really hoping someone might have a case study or recommendation for a 6400 chassis swap to something more modern. If you do please share!

Thanks!