73-87chevytrucks.com
73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => 73-87 Chevy & GMC Trucks => Topic started by: got2haul on December 20, 2007, 10:56:31 am
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I'm curious as to what it would take to convert my Custom Deluxe model grille with round headlamps to the Silverado-style rectangular headlamps that were unique to 1980 models. Parts required -- headlamp bezels, turn signal lamp assemblies? What about the gille and radiator support? Will rectangular headlamps bolt on, or is there some kind of adapter, or do you need to replace the entire radiator support? Anyone done this conversion that can provide some insight as to what's involved and what new parts are required?
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Looks like pretty much the front assembly. I was going to get this one but I am still trying to decide if it's worth it. Here's a pic.
(http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x285/Trevor2500/IMG_1767.jpg)
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From what I have seen, all it takes is the bezels and the headlamp buckets and park lamp assembly if have the 79 frontend, if you have the pre-79 front, then you would need the big chrome piece below the grill as well. And everything should just fasten right up to your existing core support and sheet metal.
-chip
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You should be able to get all the parts for the conversion through . As suggested, you will need new headlamp buckets,bezels, and Park Lamps. 73-80 trucks used the same basic radiator supports, but you may need to drill new bucket mounting holes if different... Grilles were pretty much the same between 79-80's(Even earlier in most cases)...
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Judging by the year you got in your signature i see you got a 80 already and it has the rounded headlights.Well to change it to the square i say it needs the headlight buckets(the ones that hold in the headlights, the headlight retainer rings, and the headlight trim piece and thats it.I know its just a opinon but to me the look of the rounded headlights are better, i am just not into the square headlights.But to each there own i guess.
thanks
pat
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Looks like pretty much the front assembly. I was going to get this one but I am still trying to decide if it's worth it. Here's a pic.
(http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x285/Trevor2500/IMG_1767.jpg)
I like the Square head light look. Go for it! /Chevy/Year One etc, should have all you would need for a swap, or a local salvage yard.
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I never cared for the square light look. I think they look way too much like the old Dodge trucks.
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I'm not 100% decided on this conversion yet -- in fact, I changed the 1979-1980 (round) headlight bezels and lower grille trim to the 73-78 style, and the grille to the 1977-1979 style as soon as I got this truck; however, now I'm not sure I really want to stray too far from the truck's original appearance, at least as far as its model year goes. I have recently reinstalled the original 1980 egg-crate style grille and refinished the headlight bezels, as well.
This conversion may be in the truck's future, but I just haven't made up my mind yet. A lot will depend on how difficult it is to get original GM parts, and their cost.
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AFAIK, You only need the Bezels and the buckets to do the switch.