Subframe swap

[ccoxva]

Any ideas would be helpfull on this subject. I am thinking on puttin 6bt in a tubbed half ton 53 chevy pickup. What could youall suggest on a subframe to handle the weight, and fit almost close??

[burnt_servo]

it would probally be easier to cut up the 1st gen frame and sit the chev body on that .

[mprmn08]

is it tubbed as in 2x3 squear tube frame or is it round tube frame or is factory fram just back halfed? if its factory frame just back halfed i would just box it and call it good. if its 2x3 or round tube chassis that will be strong enough. i just a built a chassis for a 1200hp big block car thats 2x3 and i know it will hold. also just gusset anywhere were you think might be a high stress or flex or weak point.

[ccoxva]

The front end is still straight axle but the backhalf is 9in w/ 2x3 kit from s and w with coilovers and ladderbars. Thought bout a frontend out of a 2wd but cant find one wrecked.

[mprmn08]

i would call it good and just box the factory frame and then go from there. you'll be plenty good with that.

[GO OVRIT]

You could probably beef up the frame enough, but that suspension, steering, brakes, and axle are not up to par for a 5.9. Does it have lever style shocks?

[ccoxva]

Lookin on youtube and the guy that put the 5.9 in the monte carlo He give me the idea of putting the 71' camaro sub under it w/ BB springs and spring spacers???

[GO OVRIT]

If its going to be anything other than a straight drag truck, I think I'd stick with later model 3/4 or 1 ton truck parts. The big block springs would still be pretty light, and the control arms would be on the weak side for bouncing up and down the road. If I remember correctly a dressed out 5.9 is somewhere in the 1100 lb range. Whats a big block chevy?...600-700? There are plenty of 94 and up 2wd dodge cummins in wrecking yards around here. Probably a little too wide, but a good starting point.

[ccoxva]

Good point thanks. Just thinkn it would be fun and reasonably cheap and fun. Rice burners will sthi!!