The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop Chevy Van Frame under a 51 3/4 ton long bed??

Hello all. I am getting ready to start the build of my 51 3600 and was trying to find a frame to put under it without having to mess with the stock one. I found that the wheelbase on mine is 125.25. I have seen guys talk about the S-10 frames, but even the long bed is almost 3 inches short, and I don't want to cut the running boards or the box. So I found that the 3rd gen of Chevy vans has a 125 inch wheelbase.

My question is; Has anyone used a van chassis under their AD? Would it even work?(width, couture...etc?) I am very much trying to go on the cheep. but also get something that is a bit newer so parts are more readily available.

Thanks, any help is greatly appreciated.
Brian

I'm not sure the third generation Chevy van even has a frame under it. The S-10 frame is telescopic, so it is adjustable if you wanted it shorter, but I don't know about longer.

I think there would be a lot more 'messing' if you went with a frame swap, than if you stayed with the stock frame.

why not use the stock frame? it fits

You're right it does, however, I haven't been able to find much information on making changes to the 3/4 driveline and suspension. Mainly the front end. I really would like to get away from the 8 lug because there isn't a lot of options for wheel combinations. So if you have some suggestions on what i could do to get a 5 lug on it with more modern brakes (not a new disc conversion). I have a 9inch and a 700R4 already and still debating on the engine at the moment.

What have you looked at so far? You've got tons of choices from MMII,corvette & several several clips to choose from. You might check with Scott Danforth here on the forum. He designed a corssmember for the A.D. I used a narrowed 79 half ton and a 70's camaro rear on my 3600.