i just picked up this 3/4 ton chevy, runs, moves under own power, but want to change to a car bolt pattern. i have read that the front axle will accept 1/2 ton rotor swap, just tying to verify this.
Welcome, Chuck! What Bill said. You'll need to take the front axle of a half ton out from under it's springs. Depending on the year truck you get this from, and what year your truck is, you made need a different drag link, but that's about as easy as it gets. (Replace the old u-bolts, too.) Then it's off to replacing the back axle. Do a search of my posts on this~ I've talked it to death... How 'bout some pictures? The fact you got one that runs, sounds like it may be in good shape, also?
thanks for the info. i have always wanted one of these, im in my late thirties now, finally get one. its been in the same family for thirty five years. i was told it was a original flat bed, if there is such a thing. the running boards stop at the back edge of the cab.
Welcome chuck ! VERY neat to get a family truck Yes , flat beds were sold by GM but more often farm trucks were sold as cab & chassis and the flatbed was procured locally or home built . GM flatbeds are rare indeed , the corners and rails are different and very pretty but usually rusted out .
im not sure what direction to go with this truck, too many options. would like to lose the 8 lug wheels, but then everything underneath will need to be changed. also debating going with a flatbed, the runningboard come to a stop at the back of the cab, and are rounded off. i would also like to lower it down a little.
If you decide to add a bed, go with Mar-k. Their panels are beautiful. You can easily add newer running gear to it.
Flat beds are good too! Not sure what you mean. Changing the a$$ end on a 3/4 is apparently an easy swap. These trucks (with the 8 lugs and the ugly hub) have an open end axle. All that needs to be done is find a similar width axle and mount the new perches. You can find an axle that is 5 or 6 lug, so you can go with whatever up front. I believe I'll be going with a Colorado back end just because it's 6 lug, new, and has a great ratio. Doing this will not affect my drive line (which is a split line - carrier bearing) or tranny. (It's the original 4 on the floor which I hope will appreciate the different rear end. Going top rpms with the old back end was probably about 40~45 mph.) Anyway, whatever you think you want to do, this is the sight to help you realize your dreams!
Inside the links is Flippers ride, of his flat bed as an example of what can be done. https://talk.classicparts.com/showthread.php?t=8426 https://talk.classicparts.com/showthread.php?t=5845
