The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop Will a 56 GMC cab fit 'ok' on a 83 GMC frame???

Hello!

We're considering a swap of a 56 GMC pickups cab/hood/fenders onto our 83 GMC 1 ton 350/4 speed 4x4.

We'd LOVE to know the variety of 'problems' to expect with this particular swap.

We know that it should work, but we're hoping to maintain the 'stock' look, not creating a lifted/huge tire/off-road-monster Truckenstein. (Not that there's anything 'wrong' with that look...!)

If someone has attempted this swap, or knows what we're up against, PLEASE save us from the dreaded "What were we thinking!?!" stage of this project!

Thank You for your time and assistance!!

I think the 83 has a much wider tread width than the 56. If you jack the whole thing up over the tires, it would probably work, but I would be afraid of real serious problems if you want to keep the wheels inside the fenders.

I agree, I put mine on a 74 suburban frame, but I wanted the lift. I cut the 53 frame between the spring perches and welded it on top of the suburban frame. It will still kinda look normal but it is lifted. check my photos and if you want any other pics let me know.

Is there a 'best option' for a donor frame?

If we're able to get this 56 cab, what would it fit upon that would give us a more modern driveline, with the least amount of... *ARRRRGH!* situations?

We don't want to go the Mustang II, or Camaro front end route. We'd rather have a more modern truck frame and driveline.

Thanks again for your time and expertise!

i put my 1946 chevy and 46 gmc and 38 gmc on a 1977 , 85 , 85 frames. i also havea 56 but i put a 1957 chevy pick-up frame under it . have you tied the 1988 up frame from the chevy a nd gmc pick-ups i have seen a few 55-59 chevy/gmc on them.thanks

take it from a cautious measurer, all you have to do is measure the respective frames/wheelbases and you'll see right away what you're up against. so far, i haven't found any 'drop it on' 4x4s to keep it somewhat 'stock'. so the next step is to keep the '50 frame as is, cut the axles down and reposition the perches

You need to measure and try to see finished photos of similar applications to determine the route you want to take. I mounted my 1951 on a 1978 1-ton frame though not four wheel drive. It would also be benificial to actually see a vehicle in person to determine what issues the other builders have encountered. You con look at the post below that was discussing a similar issue. Research is the best place to start and this site really helps.

other posts about frame swaps that might fit your application.