The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 53 3600 Conversion to 3100 Details

First post for me and I want to start off bragging on all the sharp guys that contribute information to this amazing site. I have learned A LOT.

I have a 53 3600 that I want to modify the frame in back to fit the shorter 1/2 ton bed. My truck came with no bed, only a cab, front sheet metal, and frame. I have already transfered running gear from a 78 Chevy 1/2 ton C10 truck, including the bolt in front suspension. I realize the increased track width is going to force me to use wheels with custom backspacing, but I had planned on dropping the truck and using custom steelies anyway.

My question is how much do I need to shorten the frame behind the cab ? I know what the wheel base differences are, but have also read somewhere that the rear end on the AD was not centered in the rear fenders stock. Not having a bed for it now (trying to save up the $), I do not have anything to reference off of. I would like to have the rear wheels centered in the fenders. If someone can tell me how much to cut out, I could go ahead and get that work done so I can cut down a driveshaft to fit my newly rebuilt 292/700R4. Any help will be appreciated.

Most guys that center the wheels in the fenders locate the axle about 1 1/2" back from stock location.
3100 wheelbase is 116" and 3600 is 125.25".

"If someone can tell me how much to cut out, I could go ahead and get that work done so I can cut down a driveshaft to fit my newly rebuilt 292/700R4."

I'll let you do the math...

You could always consider consider keeping the original wheelbase and not hackin' her up. Chicks dig the longbox you know.
Welcome, and good luck with your project.

Welcome aboard! I was facing the exact same delima. Like you, I originally purchased my 3600 without a bet. The sell did however throw in a half ton bed in the deal. I was going to shorten it but decided to just get a 3/4 ton bed to be different! I'll more than likely remove the middle stake pocket & fill all the holes. If you shorten yours, be sure to measure and square everything up properly.

Welcome to the 'bolt! And good luck with your truck. Did you try a search of the forums? This topic has been discussed before...and as you can see not everyone agrees. Some think 1" longer wheelbase is enough to center the wheel in the fender, some think 1 1/2". Is there a local AD 1/2-ton close to you that you can look at and measure? It might help. It's your truck so have fun with it!

Thanks to all who have responded. I did do a search, but could not find the specific answers I was looking for.

Frank50 - good advice, but no I do not have access to another 1/2 ton to measure. I may just wait until I round up a bed so I can be sure to get the rear centered how I want it.

I repsect the purist who want to restore everything factory original like Denny, but I am more into making it the way I want it (and can afford).

Were you going to do the work yourself or take it to a shop?

I will be doing the work myself. Chassis work, welding, and engine rebuilding are something I can easily do. Body work, paint and stitching interiors are where I fall down.