It's been brought to my attention once again that my "cylinder count" is getting out of hand. We are going to be making some changes, and of course, the smoke started rolling out my ears from thinking.

I have the '53 F250 that's all stock yet with the 215/6, 4 speed, etc. soon to have a flatbed/stakebed built.

I also have a '93 GMC Vandura 2500 3/4 ton conversion van with the 5.7L 350 and automatic trans, etc. The body is getting pretty bad, but the interior and running gear, frame, etc are in good shape. There is about 120k miles on the chassis.

Where the smoke comes in, is wondering if anyone has ever did a transplant combining the two. Pull the Van body, and replace it with the F250 cab and make a flat bed for it. I know the GMC has a wider stance, but the F250 has the fat fenders that may compensate. I know anything can be made to fit on anything if you're willing to do the fabrication. It comes down to how much fabrication and monies. Is anyone aware of anyone going this route? The 3/4 ton GMC pickups have basically the same frame as the vans i think.

Is this worth more thought, or should I stick a fire extinguisher up my nose and blast away?

 

I think the major problem is with fabricating body mounts that will allow a proper fit - The Ford bodies fit down over the frame rails differently then the X brand

 

I am thinking start blasting away!
Sell the van and keep the Ford a Ford!
(may not have a lot of weight coming from a guy who has a Jag IFS and some Dodge Leaf Springs)

 

For a lot less time and trouble (and $$$) you could buy a rust-free Vandura down here. They're giving them away, not exactly fuel economy giants.

1989 CHEVY VAN

92 Chevy G20 van sell/trade

 

That's also when I start getting into trouble-when I'm thinking.

 

Body/chassis swaps are never easy. But to use a van chassis to put a conventional cab truck on seems to be asking for even more difficulty than usual, with it's most unconventional engine and steering placement. Personally, I think I'd look for a plan B. It would be far easier to do a drivetrain swap into the original chassis, if that's what your overall goal is. That's my 2c.