1981 c10 4x4 swap

[midnightxj]

Let me begin by saying, I have spent the last week reading and watching people talk about doing a 4wd swap on my truck. I understand I need a transmission and transfer case. The question I’m having a hard time getting answered is this.

I have found a k10 frame. It has axels and everything. Could I technically swap everything over to the 4x4 frame. Now while I hunt down a transmission and transfer case and still have my truck or is there major differences. That will not allow it to work. Essentially I want to put my 2wd stuff all on the 4x4 frame. Drive it till I’m ready to finish the swap.


Hick-ups foreseen?
-Drive shaft length.
-cross members
-motor mounts
-transmission links and mounts




Thank you

 

[squaredeal91]

Cab/ bed swap on the table?

 

[midnightxj]

I’m not sure what you mean by that.

 

[midnightxj]

The truck is a 81 long bed. So is the frame.

 

[midnightxj]

I want to keep it exactly the same just put it on the 4wd frame and drive it till I get everything else. I will probably cut and do my own tunnel for the transmission when the time comes.

 

[squaredeal91]

Either direction you go is a big project. But if you put your engine in the 4x4 frame with transmission and transfer case. And swap cab and bed from yours to the 4x4 frame it might be less work than making your 2wd 4x4 depending on your facilities. Beds are light and easy. With a 2 post lift cab swaps are pretty easy.

 

[midnightxj]

I figured swapping the frame would be easier. The hick up is can I run my current 2wd transmission in the 4x4 Frame temporarily. While I hunt down and rebuild my transmission and transfer case or would it be better to do it all at once.

 

[squaredeal91]

I did a 4×4 conversion once leaving it 2wd fir the time being. I see no problem with that. You will need to add in carrier bearing mount for the double rear driveshaft.

 

[squaredeal91]

Hick-ups foreseen?
-Drive shaft length.
-cross members
-motor mounts
-transmission links and mounts

I'll add
□ steering links
□ steering box
□ shifter hole