I am doing a factory upgrade. I have done some research and found that the 63 through 72 frame is the same. I know the control arms are the same, I may have to have them machined to accept the 71 ball joints. I am using the power steering box too. I found this to be a cheaper more original looking upgrade. I figure this swap will give me power steering, and disc brakes. Has anybody done this before? I have a later moder 1/2 ton proportioning valve and dual master cylinder. I noticed you have my calipers for $25+core if mine are locked up. What all else do I have to change? When I use the 71 power steering box, I am going to need a 71 pitman arm for that box. Am I going to need all 71 components? Center link, idler, tie rod ends & sleeves? I noticed the control arm shaft and bushings are the same for 63-66 and 67-72. I am using 71 rotors and calipers and hopefully 2 1/2" drop spindles.
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71 front end on a 66, ever do it?
- Thread starter MikeD
- Start date
I just replaced the entire front end on my 61 chevy with a 68. Just unbolt the entire cross member section from the frame, dont undo the control arms or any thing. You will need to place the front end on jack stands just before the cab mounts. You must find away to support the motor, I used an over head hoist or the rafters of your high speed garage.Once the motor is supported unbolt the cross member, supported with a floor jack and drop it down. Place the new cross member orn the floor jack and jack it into place this project requires 2 people, bolt the new piece in with all the holes that line up and tighten them down, then take your high speed paint pen and mark the holes that need to be drilled should only be 2. Then drop it again,drill and reassemble. If it has a sway bar bolt it in, if not get one, its great. I used the drum brakes for now and hooked up power brakes from an 80 truck and propotional valve, stops on a dime. The differance is worth the trouble.there maybe a little modification here and there.If you dont have a good drill or bits gets some. if you have any question feel free to ask for help [email protected] have fun
Meddler is right it is a complete swap over. Just take your time it is a weekend job but defiantly worth it
Rick Bradley
[email protected]
816.741.8029 ext. 500
816.741.5255 fax
Rick Bradley
[email protected]
816.741.8029 ext. 500
816.741.5255 fax
basketcase
Member
:9Absolutely. Change the whole crossmember and leave all the steering and suspension attached. It will save you trying to fit different year parts together.
Tom
Tom