K10-K20 frame

[Silverado 1985]

Hello.
My first question at this forum. What is the difference between a K10 and a K20 is it only the axels or do they have different frames?

 

[Ben@CPOA/TECH]

I believe the frames are the same, spring perches could be different but the frames should have all the holes drilled if you had to switch out the perches.

 

[nerfherder78]

I think I remember seeing a spec sheet that showed that the K20 frames were made from slightly thicker metal, but otherwise the dimensions are the same and they are interchangeable. Some K20s have rear springs that are 52" long like K10s, while most will have 56" springs. The axles are interchangeable as well, I think the only differences on the front axle are the hubs and brakes. It's not until you get to the 1 tons that there are major differences.

Found it here.

 

[Silverado 1985]

Ok Thank you, so it is possible to use a K20 frame to my K10. My problem is the towing capacity of my 1985 Silverado K10. The maximum towing weight is 1500kg with our strange Swedish rules. I have a 3000kg trailer so i am trying to figure out a way to increase the towing capacity. What is the towing capacity of a 1985 K10 in USA?

 

[nerfherder78]

Went looking through my owner's manual, glove box and door tags on my '85 and didn't find anything on towing capacity, just a small section in the manual that said "ask your dealer for towing brochure."

I did find this looking online, supposedly from a 1978 owner's manual:

6500lbs would be right around 3000kg for both the K10 and K20, and apparently the m1008 (military K30) was rated at 6500lbs as well.

 

[Silverado 1985]

Thank you. So it should be the same for 1985. I only have to find the right documentation.