I was just wonderin if this would be possible or even easier to take a newer style diesel donor truck and just put the highboy body on it

 

It can be done. It's about as much work as just fabricating the stuff to put a diesel in the old truck though.

Thread w/ pics – ‘79 body on ’96 frame
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/9...-96-frame.html

Thread w/ pics – ’76 supercab body on ’91 supercab frame
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...body-swap.html

Thread w/ lots of pics – ’69 F250 on ’87 Bronco frame
F2Bronco or Bronc50. Body swap build thread - FSB Forums

 

I am pretty sure the newer (super duty) frames are wider on the front, couldn't tell you by how much. Wich if I am wrong on that someone please correct me. I do know the front axle is 4" wider than a 79 front axle. It is possible and would be neat to see it done but it might be a little easier to fit newer drivetrain in am older frame

 

this is the ULTIMATE diesel build!!!! f550

Old Ford Crew Cab Community, Pre 1980 Ford Crew Cab owners community and information source.