Replacing Cab and front clip Want Opinions

[jfkelley]

I have an 1976 K10 4WD stepside ..The Truck that is in my signature...The Fenders , Rockers , Corners and underneath are really bad rusted...A friend of mine has an 1985 4WD 6.0 Diesel with TH400 and Transfer case Long Bed for sale everything is electric inside the 85 AND IT RUNS ...I can buy the whole truck for $1000.00 ...What I want this forums opinions is I was going to put the 85 Cab and Front clip on to my 76 What are the conflicting issues with me dropping the 85' cab and front clip on the 76 frame?  ...Thanks In advance

[Mr Diesel]

I know my opinion isn't really answering your question, but I would not do that swap. I'm sure lots of people will disagree with me, but it just seems like a lot of work for what? Another cab and fenders that will be rusting out soon? Why not just pay someone to replace your rusted stuff with brand new steel, which is arguably better outcome than the other 36 year old cab and clip.

I am kind of biased though. Hate to see another diesel chopped up for parts. Would love to see someone grab that 1985 and fix it up instead, especially for only $1,000 purchase.

Edit: besides, I also like the look of your 1976 step side. Hate to see a cool looking 70s truck turned into an 80s model.

[Shifty]

I'd buy the diesel truck, but I wouldn't use it as a donor.  I'd fix the 76 with 76 parts in your spare time, and drive the other in the meantime.

[LILT77]

I would have to agree with the others. Keep the 76 a 76 rather than converting it. Assuming the funds are available, I would get the diesel and fix up the 76 when time/funds permit. I'm a bit biased to the older 70's style and would hate for another one to get lost.

[VileZambonie]

Find a new cab if yours is too far gone but keep it round.

[Scott91370]

I don't think the front mounts for the core support are the same and neither are the body mounts for the cab.  You could fabricate it but it's going to be a lot of work.