Dually conversion

[ChunkyRed]

hello everyone, new to the forum, I have a 74 c10 with a shortbed dually bed, it has a 5 lug setup now but I'm wanting to convert this truck into a real dually then eventually install some semi wheels on it, so what is needed to convert this truck into a dually any help will be greatly appreciated, its a 74 c10 2wd.

[JohnnyPopper]

Sounds like you want to convert to a C30.

Start looking for a rear axle, and front suspension components. Same year would help but not totally required.

[ChunkyRed]

Ok JohnnyPopper thank you for the response, any tips or something to consider when looking for an axle? I was told the leaf spring lengths could be different.

[JohnnyPopper]

I would look for a cheap shot out C30 whose frame is in good shape.

You will have all the running gear to compare right in front of you, and you may just opt to shorten the frame to fit your cab and bed then transfer the cab to your rebuilt frame and running gear.

The other option will be to switch our the running gear to your frame. The C30 frame is thicker, stronger though.

[Stewart G Griffin]

i'm pretty sure this has been discussed many times, but are the 1/2 ton frames and 3/4-1ton frames the same shape?   Or are they thicker, heavier AND different dimensioned?

[JohnnyPopper]

I've heard here that they are thicker.

As for different dimensions, When they rolled out a C10 and a C30 back in the day, and they looked identical in size of cab and bed, I made the assumption that they're interchangeable. Probably wrong?

[Stewart G Griffin]

What i was trying to get at is, could you just take the spring hangers, springs, rear end out of a 1-ton and bolt it into a 1/2 ton chassis?

Probably not though....

[zieg85]

Food for thought  http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=5216.0

[zieg85]

http://brochures.slosh.com/dimensions/

[JohnnyPopper]

I sure like being right about being wrong! Wowser!!!

[78 Chevyrado]

C10 upgraded won't have the weight ratings a c20 or c30 would have.  the frames are different.  c20 is heavier than a c10 and c30 is heavier and thicker than c10 or c20.  Just don't do the dually upgrade and think you'll have c30 towing and hauling capabilities.

But if it's just for looks go for it, but don't assume a GVWR above 6400lbs at best.