Hey guys. I have not been on this forum in quite a while, life and other stuff has taken me away from projects.

I have been working for a long time on an 81 4x4 Stepside that I put 6" lift on and swapped in a 460 using L&L products components. Well, a tree feel on it and smashed the cab in. So, here is the deal.

I have a nice running gear, engine etc. on the 81. I have a real nice 66 body.

I have seen a few 66 model truck bodies mated to a late 70's frame but none to an early 80's frame. Now there is a good reason for this, the 70's system with the solid axel is much more desirable. But this is what I have.

Has anyone here done this swap, or does anyone feel it would be anymore complicated putting it on the 81 frame versus a late 70's frame?

Thanks in advance.

 

I have no real insight for you, other than I know that a lot of modifying was done to get my '66 on my '78 frame anyways. 2" body lift was required to clear the steering box. I can't imagine the early 80s being much more difficult, although being a little different wouldn't surprise me. I hope you share your results if you decide to do it!

 

Swann wasn't there like a 2" gap between the cab and bed once you mounted the body on the later frame? I believe the 73-79 had 2" added to the back of the cab someone correct me If I'm wrong

 

I bought it this way, so I can't say for sure what all went into it. But I can clearly see the 2" body lift blocks between the body mounts and frame. Looking under the hood shows that it was certainly needed to clear the steering box with the inner fender. Couldn't say on the rear cab mounts for the 70s... I had a '79 4x4 but don't remember. I do think all it had was a suspension lift.