Hi:
How different are the F150 chassis/frames of the years '78-'79 from those in the years '80-'83? More specifically, could I "transplant" a '78 cab and short bed on the chassis of a '80-'83 F150 4x4 regular cab-short bed? Has anybody done this?
The reason, I am finding it easier to find me a decent early 1980's 4x4 SWB than a similar one dating from '78-'79. I already have a LWB '78 parts truck to get the cab and bed (long, but can be shortened). And no, I am not interested in cutting/chopping/shortening a LWB chassis to make a SWB. Thanks for your input. Raul

 

With the right knowledge, tools and time anything can be done. Question is why. The 80 and up went to an independent front suspension that I think is a piece of junk. The cab and box should be pretty simple to bolt up but I would suspect a bit of modification to the radiator core support would be necessary.

 

The 1980 and 1981s also had what is called the swiss cheese frame, which is not really desirable.

There would be a lot of small problems to overcome like front bumper mounting points etc...

Then you would have DMV issues to contend with.

Be better to get a frame from the correct year truck.

 

yea that independent suspension is a peice of junk ...and it sucks puttin a lift on one to