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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => 73-87 Chevy & GMC Trucks => Topic started by: Patman on July 03, 2020, 10:56:25 AM
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I have a dilemma a that id like some help with.
I have a 1965 Chevy C20 (2wd) longbed.
I also have a 1985 Chevy K10 longbed, its my daily.
Due to smog regulations in California I will not be able to renew my registration this feb on the K10. However, the 65 is old enough that I wont need to worry about smog so registration will be a snap. That said, it will be towing a 5th wheel trailer, so it’s gonna a get used.
That brings me to my options.
Option 1: Pull the motor from the K10. Install it in the 65 and call it good.
Eventually I’ll rebuild the motor. I’ll need to do chassis/axle work redo the breaks and all of that.
Option 2: Pull the entire drive train from the K10 and install it under the C20.
This would be converting a C20 into a K10 but still using hte C20 frame. That is a tall order, from what I hear. Yet others say its very doable. I have a line on a D44 HP front and a 14bolt rearend that I would make this a capeable 4x4 3/4 ton.
Option 3: Pull the body off of the C20 and install it on the 85 chassis.
This last option is pretty straight forward but it results in what is essentially a 2in body lift. It has to do with the cab and how it mounts to the C20 frame. This also give me an opportunity to stiffen up the frame to make sure that it can handle towing the 5th wheel.
Im honestly caught between the 2nd and 3rd option but leaning towards the 2nd. Opinions are welcome.
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My only concern is I think the wheel base differs between the 65 and 85. I like the #2 option as well because of it.
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If you're going through that much trouble swapping bodies. I would look for a 2000+ chassis with LS running gear and just drop the body on that one. Unless you'r going for a period correct build I wouldn't use the antiquated suspension or chassis from either of your candidates. Have you thought about selling the 85 to fund a better build on the 65?
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I haven’t, but I would...
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Option 3 is the lessor of two evils.
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The Goatman has the right answer.
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I also agree with boatman and that way you do not have to mess with the K10.
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I'm in the goat boat now!
Classic square on a newer chassis 8)
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Option 4: Get a 2000+ 3/4 ton which could be used as a daily driver AND tow a 5th wheel camper.
#2 and 3 = WAAAY TOO MUCH work.
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Im diggin the later model chassis idea...
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Ok so here’s the deal.
I dont have the $$ for a newer chassis. I am kind of stuck with the K10 because it has a head gasket leak. I have had the trans, transfercase, and rearend completely rebuilt, the breaks are all good, electrical is good, al new u-joints throughout and more. HOnestly, the only work that needs to be done to the K10 is the motor, some basic from end work And the interior. At this point, I have too much $$ in it to sell.
If I do the above work, I’ll have a solid fishing/camping/firewood rig.
That still leaves me with the need to tow this 5th wheel from Cali to Ohio and beyond.
I was given the C20 and was hoping to use that to pull the 5th wheel. That seems like a non starter at this point. Maybe I can build the C20 and flip it for something more suited to tow with.
Seriously, thanks for the insight and advice.
Pat