Replacing frame

[DarnDog]

Hello everyone, after lurking for several years I finally joined the forum! (thank you for adding me) I have a '95 GMC K1500 SCSB and the frame is rusted to the point of failure. I realize this topic has been beaten to death, but yet another frame compatibility question...

Can I use any 88-98 model year frame as long as it's a SCSB 1/2 ton? I found a very nice '89 rolling chassis, will there be any compatibility surprises? I don't know what drive train the donor has but mine is a 5.0L / 4L60E.

About six years ago I replaced the fuel tank and all brake/fuel lines. The frame was solid but rusty and I wish I had the foresight to clean & paint it. I've been a lifelong WI resident and can't believe how corrosive salt & brine have become in recent years! It's really a shame to see these trucks deteriorating so badly.

 

[TreeGeared]

It should work. However I would carefully examine the cab, fenders and bed on the original truck. If the mounting points are overly rusty then you may just be openning a bigger project than you bargained for. I love my old trucks just as much as anyone on here but there is a point where it just makes more sense to find another truck. Or if you found a good chassis find the other pieces to put it together from the ground up and run the original truck in the mean time.

 

[evilunclegrimace]

The only issue that I can think of is the idler arm on the early truck mounts differently. The early trucks have a one piece idler that bolts directly to the frame and the later trucks have a two piece unit that mounts to the frame in a different way. All of the other front end components are the same.

 

[Erik the Awful]

C1500 vs K1500 have different frames.

 

[DarnDog]

C1500 vs K1500 have different frames.

Both trucks are K1500

 

[DarnDog]

Thanks for the replies. Rust is plentiful on this truck and I'll be replacing lots of parts including doors, fenders and a new box. It's good to know about the idler arm, I will watch for that.

I'd love to replace the truck but SCSB trucks are becoming fewer and fewer, decent ones command a good price. I've had this one for nearly 20 years and it has a little sentimental value.

 

[SUBURBAN5]

Make sure to post pics. I want to frame swap my burb one day. Goodluck