Gmt400 frame differences Buy a different truck, as stuff breaks or wears-out, scavenge what you can from this one. Looks really amazing, I want to do this myself as well. The 4L80 transmission, front and rear axles, springs, frame, front suspension, 8 lug wheels etc. I've been receiving a lot of requests lately to retrofit all different genres of the GMT400. Anyway, my frame has some rust that has eaten up the hole for the radiator support bushing in the frame on the passenger side. Mar 5, 2021 #40 stutaeng No reinforcements! That black is the bracket for the bumper itself I’ve take. 5" 2 Door Blazer/Tahoe: 111. Thread starter 1badeagle; Start date Jun 6, 2013; Differences between K1500 with K3500 frame. Slop in brand new Borgeson quick ratio box. Difference in Frames. It has a 3" BL and I was thinking about pulling off the running boards, but was not certain if that was a good idea, since the frame will show up so much. Thickness of the frame gets thicker with the cab configuration. But pulling a bed is much easier than pulling a tahoe body. 64 question, what specifically is that difference? Does anyone know if newer body mounts will fit in these trucks? I've heard that they will through a handful of threads here and elsewhere, but an aftermarket manufacturer I've talked to says that the GMT400 cab mounting brackets on Depends on what you are talking about. This will depend mightily on the condition of the rest of the truck. add pressure and see how much walks out. But the combination of steel and modulus is what determines frame "strength". Long story short the box was completely shot with termite damaged throughout the box frame since it was all wood. Reactions: Keeper and I'm doing some work to this k1500. 2WD and 4WD frames used a this pic might be better for comparison. You could always cut them off and reweld in the correct location. Different bolt pattern for mounting to the frame. Don't confuse a 2000 C/K2500 with a 1999 Silverado. Thread starter DieselDetroit; Start date Mar 2, 2014; Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. Its a k1500 and this summer i plan on doing a solid axle swap and lifting it up to build into a trail/dd truck. The bottom is a crop of the GMT800 ext cab/shortbed 4x4 frame. Reactions: stutaeng. 7 KB · Views: 16 Last edited: Oct 22, 2023. Please allow me to give a quick back story on this truck & post. Heck I used a 96 Yukon body parts to convert my 98 Chevy to a GMC and Forums. Members. Any differences between these two trucks besides frame thickness and lugs on the wheels? However, an elongated gusset that engaged the frame and the hitch across the entire length would be better. The NBS hoses will clip directly onto your frame-mounted brackets, but you will need a brass fitting to adapt your 3/16 steel lines to the hoses that are designed for 1/4 steel lines. It was an ex school district truck. dfarr67; Sep 6, 2024; Stock Suspension + Bolt On Kits; 2 3. lol But he can always see a different way of doing things than I do Reactions: Brother Al. #3 The bed is still steel and heavy. both 3500s are 4. There's a potential difference in repair process. The frame designs are the same, some thickness and some height differences between the light and heavy duty frames. They are not the normal 10. Of course there may be a slight difference in the length of said sleeve to allow less or more crush to positively Ok, so I am new to this forum. done a squarebody cab on a GMT frame or if they can point me in the direction or pointersM I know the GMT455 frame is different from the more common GMT400 but any pointers would be great before I take the plunge. I think MAYBE your options are whether to get a C1500, C2500, or C3500 frame based on the thickness of the metal, but not to swap into extended-cab/crew-cab or short-box frames. New posts Latest activity. Referenced from the GM 1970 truck engineering specifications book. looks like the uca and ball joint angle is the problem at the moment. It also had a 14 bold semi float rear end. The only area that paint will NOT hold up well on is the frame section from the firewall to the rear of the cab. I dropped the steering box out of my '88 K1500 expecting to slap in one of the JGC "spares", but the OEM steering gear is huge in comparison to the JGC. If the compressor locked-up, you will need to solvent-flush EVERYTHING, and replace the orifice tube and dryer, there will be shrapnel everywhere in the system. Tons of differences between the GMT400's and GMT800's. Anything has to be better, these trucks have a lot of flex in the middle between the bed and cab. Awhile back I had the idea of swapping drive trains In the market for a 96-98 1500 4x4 with the 5. Both are the same fluid in the bottle - Castrol Syntorq LT, which for the most part cannot be bought under that brand name as it was private-labeled to GM and Mopar. Now I have been searching for the past couple of days on the different effects of boost valves and their sizes. 3 V6 you will have to remove the V6 frame perches circled in red in the following photo. Even suspension components, now is the easiest work you will ever have on those frame mounted components. The 305 felt like I was always driving uphill, whereas the 454 feels like I'm always 8100 chevy vortec GMT800 Sierra Suburban AC compressor location conflicts with GMT400 frame. The heavy 2500 is basically a 1 3500 frame differences. 25” (ring gear diameter) front differential and the 1500s have a 8. Towards the end of 1996, my dad and I walked into our local Chevy dealer and sat down with a salesperson to order this 1997 Silverado Ext. Richard I have however, heard plenty of hill billies tell me about their old Camaro wid dat dere fo fiddy 4, fo bolt main made some much power dat sumbitch twisted the frame up like a twizzler when the tars hooked. 1; 2; 3; First Prev 3 of 3 Belltech 5950 leafs - notch GMT400 frame styles. Reactions Can somebody tell me the difference in the 1 ton brakes from a dually front brake to a SRW 1 ton front brake? I have a k3500 NON dually truck. Reactions: HotWheelsBurban. To be sure id stick with the same 3500 2wd frame and wheelbase The market for the GMT400 much less the 3500 series is high demand here in Columbus,Ohio. So, I can get a 99 2500 obs 8 lug rear frame cheap and easy. check a chevy dealer and maybe you can get a good deal on one. Engineering changes and updates were constantly being made within GM so they needed a robust way to label the EC level. P. Will the frame start to fold if I don't address this? He picked up another frame from a GMT400 and took it down to the two main independent rails, then boxed his driver side rail with the donor frame's passenger side and vice versa. dfarr67. Entire axle is the best way to The tags are likely a GM engineering level for your specific frame design. The Co. Nad_Yvalhosert. One thing I did read is that, the two inner bumper brackets are slightly different. Regards Jan If you find a 2500 frame with the 6 lug set up, it should be a relatively straight forward swap. 500. Any differences between these two trucks besides frame thickness and lugs on the wheels? the GMT400 88-98 platform had different cab and interior modifications over the years, but as far as I know the frames should be the same for each series. No big deal. Thread starter ZERT AZ; Start date Apr 22, This is the upfitter's hand book for the GMT400 series truck. I've purchased several ex fleet vehicles over the years and the always seem to have weird options. The Vortec filler will fit TBI valve covers as long as the valve cover uses a threaded cap. I pried-off the bigger bracket and discarded it. To that end, my question is - what differences were there between the 1/2 ton (v1500) and 3/4 ton (v2500) variant of this model? Thicker steel in the frame? Beefier rear axle? Here is a close up of my GMT400 K1500 frame, ext cab/shortbed its a crop of my initial frame picture. The GMT400 also Does anyone know the exact differences in a 96 3500 dually frame compared to a 96 3500 single wheel frame? I'm under the belief that 88 to 94 frames in the 2500 and 3500 two-wheeled will work can anyone confirm or point out chassis differences based on years thanks. 42 C2500. New posts Search forums. GZM2024; Nov 27, 2024 There's a difference when you're doing your own vehicle. I was always under the impression they were The only difference between 2WD frames and 4WD frames for our GMT400's is the front cab mount forward, essentially just the front suspension module. Set up to pull at a slight incline. I ended up using a 1500 lift kit on this truck from rough country but never found anything on suspension/towability differences, just dimension specs. I have got a 1992 K2500HD truck and could get K1500 frame from 1994. Attached is the frame specs from 1991 catalog from gm heritage center. The 8-lug K2500/K3500 frames use different upper control arms, and maybe different rear spring mountings from the K1500s. Reactions: someotherguy and HotWheelsBurban. Will hit it with chassis saver. 3500HD trucks only came in 2wd here it is in the air with the uca/ball joint contacting frame. 10 gears, the 2500 is 3. I stand corrected as the 3500 is thicker and 1-1/2" to 2" taller (top of frame to bottom of frame) under the cab area of the 3500. At the rear spring mount the frame is 37 1/4" that equals a 7" taper. When I opened the cans I noticed that my 'teal' paint looked awfully 'aqua' - in fact, it's a dead ringer for my Autozone touch-up cans of Bright Aqua Metallic (9796) People with the right equipment would take this time to fully box the frame for strength as well. The biggest difference I have seen in Vortec and TBI valve covers on a truck is the attachment bolts and the size of the PCV baffle boxes inside. bed off and on frame machine 2. Well a few weeks ago I wrecked my truck. Joined Jul 3, 2023 Messages 156 Reaction score 170 GMT400 Contact us; Terms and rules; IF you have a decent selection of Treasure Yard vehicles, you could replace the frame. Richard The cabs are all the same, yes. If the system held pressure, you wouldn't even need a re Hello everyone. K1500 vs K3500 difference. I wasn't disagreeing with your take on OP's situation, just saying people do some pretty radical stuff with frames and I don't necessarily care for Actually, I had a 91 sclb light duty 4. Am I able to just slide the suburban body on the ext cab, long bed frame? Both wheelbases are 131. Will the Yukon body fit on the Sierra frame. Everything from frame dimensions to the angle of the transfer case, to where the clearance lights are The part numbers for the frame assemblies is only one number apart, and if you look at the break-down, all of the crossmembers are the same between the 2 frames. The rear of the frame is in terrible shape. Rear axles are different - 2500 has a 14 bolt semi-float and the 3500 has a 14 bolt full float, in most cases. The frame is a gmt400 which are unfortunately known for rot on the rear portions ANd the frame by the front control arms has seen better days But its silverado interior bits , doors, glass, Engine, trans(as a core), axle, etc. I'm looking for input on how to fix it. Generally a 6” drop / raise hitch solves the differences , but I haven’t purchased yet . Add sub-frame connects and torque boxes and really make progress. and when So I had ordered a vette servo for my 4L60E, and the same ebay auction I won came with a . On the other hand, the GMT800 is a 4th where did these things change in the 88-98 trucks. To answer your inquiry, you will need a 1998 Light Duty Series 10,20, 30, 1500, 2500, and 3500 Body Builders Book. Does anyone know the cab and bed frame hight difference, and possibly where I could buy mounts since the GMT400 frame is wider than the Squarebody frame? I plan to use the 1997’s 350 and 5-speed transmission, After sanding/prepping my frame, I’ve used VHT Roll Bar and Chassis paint (an aerosol spray). he ended up spending 1300. The issue I've been facing is all the different interior/exterior variances. Thread starter DieselDetroit; Start date Mar 2, 2014; but the overload leaf in the 2500 is longer. Cab. It's better to be tired and have a pocket full of money than to be tired and hungry. Although, I think that the square bodies had a different frame than the GMT400s, so the spring perches will be different widths. My truck- '88 K2500 6 lug, 5. Hi everybody, I recently took delivery of a couple gallons each of gray primer, Bright Teal Metallic base (9794), and clear. But if it is a frame from an 8 lug 2500 or 3500, you'd be better off just swapping your body onto the HD rolling chassis. I know I need a driveshaft, brake lines, a bed but as far as the frame what do I Doing a modified restoration on a 94 k3500 srw rclb. 00 for it. While the GMT 400 faced challenges like early ball-joint failures and a softer ride, its overall performance, fuel efficiency, and towing capacities marked a significant improvement over the "square body" generation. At full strength works as good as solvent on grease. Standard cab Extended cab Quad cab Suburban Tahoe (2/4 door models) Escalade Denali Plus between the years 88-00 there was changes. now it is more intrusive and at a different speed. What’s the most beneficial is engaging the hitch to the frame using gussets at the extreme ends, not so much in the middle. I can get it for next to nothing. I do plan on covering the frame in fluid film before putting the bed back on. Particularly using The gmt800 rear end links they are ( taller ) and they reach the gmt400 frame which is designed straight on the trucks unlike the suvs. I know I need to cut holes for shifter and such, but will I need custom mounts? Are the frames the same? Thanks ahead of time! As already mentioned it makes for more predictable suspension action. I have enough resources to be cheaper than buying a new truck. No they are different lengths but also the can mounts and box I am replacing the frame in my 1997 centurion k1500 crew cab with a 1999 k2500 crew cab short bed frame. If the frame is that bad, is the body any better? To me, this is a parts-truck now. 5" This has been discussed before (the resonance/vibration from the middle of a GMT400 frame) though I can't remember the proper name for it. My question is, is there a difference between the 2wd 4dr frames? Hello everyone. What i found was interesting as it confirms that both C/K2500 and C/K3500 have the exact same frame. Joined Jan 6, 2024 Messages 2,459 Reaction score 6,014 Location Edmonton Alberta. thats the only difference i can I have searched a couple different forums and have found some people have dona this but none in the obs on a reg cab long bed frame and I'm going to be doing a sas to my truck and figure while its down during winter this is the time to do it. Also could use the If lug counts are different, then the frames are different. Apr 29, 2023. 2500s/3500s utilize a 9. GMT400 Contact us; Terms and rules; Hi. I kept testing The synthetic fluid recommended IS an AC Delco branded fluid. On the 94-up, the bumper sticks out a tiny bit more than the 88-93's did, to accomodate for the new grille trim piece that goes between the grille and bumper. Best advice (If I were you), find another GMT400 in the junkyard with a solid frame and snag it. any one have any info That's strange. Register or Log In To remove these advertisements. POR works great, but it's a challenge to put There is a slight difference in frame thickness from 2500 to 3500. 96 seems to look different but I was looking for a definitive answer on this as I am about to buy a donor vehicle to rip the interior from. If you don't value your time no The frame must be supported properly before making that first cut. I am new to this forum. 3. Nov 7, 2012 The passenger seat. This has been discussed before (the resonance/vibration from the middle of a GMT400 frame) though I can't remember the proper name for it. I took my box off last spring, and wire wheeled the entire frame down than applied some rustoluem brush on black rust stop paint with a little hardner mixed into it. The NBS brake hoses have 2 metal brackets crimped onto them for mounting the hoses along the way to the frame. I have snagged a GM performance intake so that I. Has an extra solinoid to control the PWM. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Said many a times and had to work through argument after argument that the frames on these trucks(1500's) are for shyt. but i was looking at some different sas kits and seen on sky mfg that there kit is good fo 88-97 chevy trucks and i was wondering if there was The only difference between 2WD frames and 4WD frames for our GMT400's is the front cab mount forward, essentially just the front suspension module. Now everybody complains about the stopping of these GMT400 front brakes even with hydraboost. I figured suspension is close to the frame- both figuratively and literally. 5 inches. 7 TBI, SM465 trans. 4 L V8 with the 8. With a second frame it would be easier for me to start my resto. They The frames themselves are different between the 6 lug and 8 lug 2500s, the front differentials, steering knuckles, and upper control arms do not interchange. This is a basic history of the C/K line of trucks. 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. I just want to accommodate different Trailer/ tow options. Thread starter 98RCSB; Start date Dec 11, 2012; The only issue that I can think of is the idler arm on the early truck mounts differently. Far as I can tell, the 8600/9200# GVWR rear leaf pack was the same and only the dually got the additional upper overload. im either going to scrap the coil spacer and go for a spindle lift or buy the extended upper arms to try and fix uca geometry/angle. i have heard that this is common (at least in the rust belt) and there is a repair plate available for this. I think the best way would be to just do an eng/trans swap and keep the tahoe together because i thought the frames had a different design. Almost nothing is compatible between the two platforms as far as bolt ons. Cab longbed, I want to cut the frame from longbed to shortbed. Alot. Ok i have a 1998 Chevy regular cab short box. frame machine tower to hitch via web straps etc. I have next week off so hoping to get most of the frame swap done by then. My donor engine is from a '98 K2500 8 lug, it was a factory crate replacement engine that has about 55K on it. i did a google search and searched on here and found nothing. GMT800 steering box into GMT400. This is a low-dollar ride (large rust holes above wheel wells patched by me with bondo already) but I do want it Not properly supporting the frame before cutting into it is usually where this goes wrong, right at the beginning. Cueing up the wrong frame on the assembly line would be a showstopper. That equals 3/8" difference per side. The frame is a 1500 frame with a few minor extra braces/gussets. The middle and top sections on the frame are still thick but the bottom is definitely getting thin. 490 and then theres the . Obviously there is some difference or GM wouldn't have changed the part number--the $1. Thread starter DieselDetroit; Start date Mar 2, 2014; You can swap bodies onto different frames regardless if 2 or 4 wheel, just had to be the same configuration. I have read that some shift kits come with . Registered 2 different generations of trucks. First year for PWM. they arent done yet lol. GMT400 or GMT800. Dad began to layout everything he wanted on this truck and Found this information, and just wanted to post it here as I've seen a few threads ask/mention about it. I have a 98 K1500 with a little rust area forming on the frame, left side, about the area of the driver door hinges. 5 K1500? Both are SCLB frames. If your GMT400 originally had a 4. The rest of the frame is nice and solid but this one spot concerns me. Will the 88-90 square body fit on the 92-98 frame? I know these are both gmt400s, and the pre88s are 3" wider but specifically the 88-91 body on 92+ frame. 7 showed up in my price range. Reactions: Sean Buick 76. Different colored, with different letters allows easy and quick ID. 80s solid axled frames are quite popular swaps on gmt400s ive seena The GMT400 also ran into 2000/2001 and maybe as late as 2002, so don't limit your search to '98 and older. you can even throw a locker in the front diff of the 3/4 or 1 tons. I also have a completely freshly rebuilt 3/4ton 10 bolt for the front axle, just need a NP241C with vss to make it That taper at the rear is also one of the big differences between a C&C and a regular pickup. Has a different 3-2 control solonoid, and a extra wire in the harness to facilitate the PWM TCC lockup. GM part # 12346190. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission. Mar 29, 2024 #2 Sean Buick 76 I'm Awesome. might have more years, no newer than GMT400. just a question. K, as well as differences overall 1500 vs. I am unsure of adding capacity with heavier duty springs, in part, because I am not familiar with the capabilities of the stock 1500 frame and axles. Probably 2 towers. Maybe because its a crew cab? Other than having a bigger differential and heavier duty springs everything appears to mount and be in the exact location as the 1500 aside from the differences above. light cleaning. I look at other trucks that have dual rear wheels and the front rim is quite different as we all know. will this work on my 1998 sierra x cab. NowI nearly had a heart attack when looking at the frame as it's definitely "different" so to speak! In 2001, the C3500HD chassis cab replaced the 7. Thread starter Nick94; Start date May 2, 2022; GMT400 Contact us; Terms and rules; The frames are the same, you could order the 2500 with the same springs/etc. The main differences between these frames are the design, suspension components, and steering systems. ive got 2-1997 srw 3500s 350/4l80 9200gvw and a 1996 2500 454/4l80 8600gvw. GMT400 Vs GMT800: Detailed Comparison. 3/700r4/3. The 2WD trucks I don't know much about the 88-98 body style trucks, though I have owned one before. Pick which one you want/need and get the entire correct frame for your purposes and go from there. Don't think there would be a frame difference, maybe steering, but not frames. he just restored his 94 k1500 reg cab shortbed. The interior was tweaked in 1990 with slightly different "half-moon" gauges 6 lug 2500 LD completely different than 2500 8 Lug. There were also different frame designs for each model. Would anyone know what the dimension differences would be between these two? Did they carry over the same frame from the GMT400 to the GMT800 body style? Forums. As previously pointed out, the 3500 got the BW transfer case. Notice the cupholders on the half-tons disappeared and were replaced with said airbag. Extended cabs have 6 cab mounts while regular cabs have 4. The frames are all different, ecsb frames are different from a rclb. just want to have somewhat normal suspension travel. Wont be home for a week or so, and wont get my scanner/ copier/printer till after Christmas. Unfortunately, they are not very good pics, so I recommend acquiring a copy of the book by searching the internet The 2wd frames are different, not sure if they have these issues based on their construction or not. I don't ever intend to do anything hardcore with the truck From what I understand, they are broadcast tags for assembly line workers to know which frame to use with which model truck being built. Addition of My apologies if this is in the wrong section. Differences between 97 & 98 Chevy truck frames. My question Looks like the winning company in that comparison Mastercoat has a great product and apparently is unubtanium right now because the the YouTube vid went viral and the internet broke the company. 5" I would imagine that the best place to cut the 6 inches out of the frame is directly under that cab in the flat section. They appear insignificant at first glance but surely some engineers at GM did the math on what they add to the overall package, or these differences wouldn't exist. Here’s a pic of my ‘94 K1500 EC after I did a little frame clean up. Here’s a question, did they ever make a LD C2500? Probably not, never heard of one. Once removed, you are able to install the V8 clamshell mount in its place. This is at Hey guys new to this forum but this is the third gmt400 truck Ive owned. If you're doing it for a customer or trying to flip one it absolutely has to add value. 73. 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks share the same frames and front suspension pieces. what is the difference between a 2500HD single wheel drive frame and a 3500 dually frame. Either way you will have to swap the frame side engine mounts for the 4. Most pre-fabbed notches are over-built for the 8 lug has different front UCA mounts than 6 lug and different diff mounting. Debating on swapping this out. But I need to know what's all needed. Jul 12, 2023 #3 But it's a GMT400 Tahoe swapped onto a GMT900 Escalade frame. My C2500 Suburban had it mild at around 60-65mph - but it's got much worse and now occurs at 70mph - a useful cruise speed. My body on my 95 suburban (W/t) is beat but has a newer trans and rebuilt motor, and I have a friend with a 91 body that has no running gear. 7L. look at a gmt400 heavy half or 3/4 or 1 ton frame/axle. Are the frames different? Ive seen 78-87s with GMT400 boxes, but I imagine mouting spots are different up front, Unless someone who has an ECSB OOBS frame around here with a GMT400 cab on it, I dont think we can be of any help. Here's my example-Years alike: 96-98 Can anyone explain SPECIFICALLY what is included in the F44 heavy duty chassis package on a 1991 c1500 2wd? The differences between heavy duty chassis and light duty chassis parts has bewildered the parts store clerks before (8 trips to the damn parts store to change front brake calipers and wheel bearings) so I have decided this time to order all my Need to strip the frame further and fix any spots that need fixing. The trucks featured flush side glass, a modular-assembled bonded-flush windshield, single-piece door frames, hidden roof pillars and built-in drip rails. That factory weld can be removed and a different front clip can be rewelded in the factory location a EX; 2wd to Here is my condensed history of the 88-98 GMT400 trucks. This would address 80-90%, the crown, the rails being down, and some of 8-lug to 8-lug, the differences are mostly incremental. An 800 chassis isn't anymore rugged then a 400, and the suspension geometry is practically the same, so ride quality isn't any different. jpg. Richard Oh, absolutely a very different frame, much taller and thicker - and the wrecker units are generally on their own framework which bolts directly to the frame, which I suspect adds lots of rigidity. I want to do a drop on this so may notch it before I put the bed on. The Centurion is just an extended 1500 frame right? The factory CC frames were the thickest of I have three JGC boxes in my garage, one is waiting to be installed in my '68 'Camino, the other two are "spares". The LD frame is just a 1500 frame with allegedly some extra frame braces. Crew Cab / Long Bed Wheelbase (in): 168. any C2500"LD"; they'll 1. thats alot of down time to swap entirely different frames and such. Frames only differ based on lug count: 8 lugs got a heavier frame and the crew cab 8 lugs were heavier yet behind the front section. My frame is rotted by the bumpers and I already have a frame for an Forums. Click to expand If I recall correctly, the only difference is that in the last two inches or so, the 4x2 frame has a rounded blunt end to it, while the 4x4 frame is like an open C-channel at the very end so that the recovery hooks can be mounted inside Said many a times and had to work through argument after argument that the frames on these trucks(1500's) are for shyt. The V8 used a different mount. It’ doesn’t look like it’s a welded connected portion of the receiver My entire frame is perfect this is only the last 8-10” at the ass end of the truck pretty much where the receiver bolts down I think I’m gonna remove it and ***** things !! The vans used a different setup, filler tube presses into a large grommet. one of my customers has a brand new NBS frame off of a 2002 Silverado x cab. I can break a steel ball in a rubber room! Companies helping me get dirty: Synergy Mfg Goatbuilt Carbon Offroad When the frame rails were bare with the IFS removed and the body still attached I was able to lift, by hand, either frame rail several inches above the other. I really doubt the bed itself is sagging; too much rigidity in too many places for that. Same song through the same system but a very different experiance. (I might stick on some tube steps later or something) 67-72 Frame Differences The 1967 - 1972 Chevrolet & GMC Pickups Message Board. It's be an archeological dig to find the thread I'm thinking of, but it had a graphical depiction of the differences in the front sections of the frames. The GMT800 introduced a more rigid frame design and improved suspension components, offering better handling and ride quality compared to the older GMT400. my 1999 k 2500 has some frame rot on the left front horn and back to the steering box mounting points. I was browsing a couple diesel forums, and I came past a thread that said the frames between 1/2 and 3/4tons were different. Big finned drums, obviously different than the 10" ones (if the yard has pickups and SUVs you should be able to find both styles and note the differences). This list does not differentiate between manual and automatic versions, that about doubles the list! Any corrections are invited. The sagging appearance is almost surely going To cut a long story short, my truck needs a bit of frame welding to pass it's UK annual test so decided to do it properly and remove the bed, fuel tank etc to do both the repair and whilst at it, descale the frame & treat the rust etc etc. Steve Addy; Apr 28, 2023; Street Chat / Timeslips; Replies 9 Views 5K. Anyways, I was looking for answer as to what the difference is between the 15 and 2500 trucks, as far as I could tell dimensions wise everything is just about the same. shouldve known people would just say to sell it lol. The 1500 frame is different from the 2500 and 3500 frame Very large differences in frames for 2wd vs 4wd. As you can see from the comparison table above, the GMT400 is from the 3rd generation GM vehicle with a rounded styled feature. Looks like the demand is quite heavy right now and they can’t keep up. Gmt400 frame would be stronger as front part is boxed. The lowers, however, are the same and can be had made of stamped steel or forged steel. I only have a 1996 guide to send bad examples of pics of a 1996 K1500 4x4 regular cab body style with Specs, Dimensions & Designs. Frame do not interchange between 2wd and 4x4 because of the front frame differences. The C&C rear axle is also about 8" narrower than a regular dually rear. I understand that the wheelbase difference are as follows: 4 Door Tahoe/Yukon: 117. If frames are same then obviously more options are available. GMT400 frame styles. Dodge dealers sell it too under another part #. Long story short, truck started to fishtail coming onto the road I overcorrected and ended up hitting the median which completely destroyed the wheel and bent the frame. Within a couple of years I'd love to have my frame boxed between the rear cab mount area to the past the front shackles for the rear axle. So where GM placed the cab mount perches on the frames are in the same spots. Replies 24 Views 3K. 5 inches or so center to center. That's why my older smarter brother lives with me. 500 boost valve (all brand new). looking at '95 models I can still see the same 'frame' as the earlier 88-94 poking from under the dash. What to do about is what has I'm looking to start a project on my 89 4x4 ext. I haven’t hooked up my Atv trailer yet , but it’s possible it could be at the right level for towing. Even the steel is rated at the same strength. I see you're talking 4wd, so that makes it easier. The '89 may not even have a sway bar. I came across a free 1996 K1500 with a frame that is in good condition, and I wanted to know if I could use the 4x4 frame on my 2WD by just swapping everything over. I will try to post pics but the bed was shifted over 2-3 inches easily right after I've got a 92 suburban which is 2wd, and a 94 k2500 that has a shot body and solid frame. The result came out very nice, and has held up pretty well. They will twist. Might be cheaper to find a frame shop. Aftermarket notch or you fabbed? Aftermarket notches usually don't need to be made stronger. he got a new gm frame for it. I know i will have body mount problems and will have to bob the front of my bed. 99 GMC Yukon slt badly bent frame , 98 GMC Sierra 1500 regular cab,short fleetside bed with bad cab damage. Mar 17, 2017 #19 Brother GMT400 frame styles. 1 L Vortec 8100 V8, making it the only GMT400 vehicle to use this engine. D. I've recently bought a 94 C2500 Hd ext cab truck with the 5. There's a weld below the front door on all the trucks ,it where the C-channel changes to square tube part of frame. Forums. Also, appears you could get a 305 in the 2500 but not in the 3500 (obviously a LD 2500). See where the frame is puckered in front/above the front bolt? This is exactly the frame damage that happens when you bump a trailer against a loading dock, hitch gets bumped at the drive-thru, someone bumps your trailer, etc. The frame at the cab is 45 1/2" wide, at the front spring mount it is 44 1/4" wide . But as far as the bodywork and drivetrain mounting up, sure, if they're both same wheelbase and C1500's then yeah, they're close enough to same to make it happen. Cab 5. Sep 10, 2024. Heck, the GAWR (gross axle weight ratio) between a K2500 and a K3500 for the rear is 6,000 lbs (K2500) and 6,084(K3500). The 2500/3500 frame is taller than that under a 1500 and the front differential will not swap between the two. Joined Mar 7, 2017 Messages 12 Reaction score 2 There are some minor differences, gonna say the idler arm bracket mount is different, and possibly the sway bar mount. I stripped everything I could and rust treated it with OSPHO before painting it with good 2 coats of Rustoleum. Better pics since off work things aren’t as bad as it seems but it visually shows where the structural integrity let go for some reason it’s mostly the last 5-8” of the bottom frame on both sides pretty much where the receiver bolts GMT400 frame styles. As far as 4 wheel disks, disks only have two advantages over drums, easier maintenance, and they cool better, beside that, most drums work better in a truck situation being that disk brakes naturally create drag. Are the frames full box? Are the strong or weak? How do they compare to the C The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network > 47 - Current classic GM Trucks > The 1988 - 1998 GMT400 Chevy & GMC Pickups Message Frame dimensions are different. Likely just forward of the last cab mount/first bed mount. Thank you Are there any differences between the ladder frames of a 6. May 12, 2017 #27 GroundSpeed Newbie. 's making them have a rep to protect, along with some liability concerns. This is at least written in factory manuals. These are the different PICKUP TRUCK frames as I understand. Prev. . Motors done have the Rest of driverrain and body parts Been trying to find a nice southern rust free frame. I hear rumors that the frame is thicker, which I beleive is true. the frame notches, link bars, new gas tank cross member and bag pockets/brackets were done this summer, the rest of the back half were done 2 yrs ago. they gave him a good price because gm wants to get rid of all the older frames. Suburbans I won't comment on because I am not as familiar with them. What's new. I noticed when I bought it that it had factory twin pipes exiting the passenger side behind the tire. Then run all new brake lines, fuel lines, re-do anything on the frame now. I want the later heater box but only want the Those bushings have a sleeve in the center to limit crush and to act as a bearing surface for the urethane bushing. All of the other front end components are the same. There is a slight difference in frame thickness from 2500 to 3500. Camaro's are uni-body. Another noticeable visual difference was the addition (in 96) of passenger side front airbag. I do envy your sway bars. 7L pickup. 1/2 ton stuff is 1/2 ton stuff. 3-2 shift AND TCC are PWM in this trans. I am gathering parts to get ready to do the engine swap in my beater. they seems identical other than one 3500 has a set of triangle spring packs that are ridiculously beefy. The control arms are different, the front diff mount is So my dad thinks he can take the body off of his tahoe and swap it with our 91 stepside. Richard . well the bolt holes on the seat frame are farther apart from front to back. The bracket doesn't appear to be available on its own. Anyway on to my question, I'm looking for the frame specs for 88-98 GM/Chevy trucks, 1500-3500, std, extended, four door, short and long bed trucks. But even that could have oddball issues. If the bearing locked-up, you need (at minimum) a new bearing. C&C's are ladder straight and 34" apart once they kick up behind the cab, all the way to the rear. Thread starter easy5580; Start date Feb 5, 2023; for tons of GM vehicles including all of the GMT400 years Click to expand Nice, thank you. If you move the rear spring hanger ahead 14" the frame width is 38 1/2" for the rear and the front is 45 1/2" and that also equals 7" of taper. It has ever dimension you will EVER need for our truck. 25” front differential. 1998 vs 2000 Suburban Frame. A 99 Escalade is a GMT400, but a 2002 Silverado is not (though there are some token C3500 GMT400s from 2002 out there). Apologies for reviving an old post, I lost sleep looking for frame info last night. SS Tim C Blazer COIL C/10 115" COIL C/10 115" LEAF The GVWR being higher pretty much necessitates higher spring rates, better brakes, better differentials, etc. The only measurement I see different is the upper control arm brackets. 148. Tried searching and im wondering if anyone hase ever pulled off a new body style gmt800 2500hd frame swap in one of these trucks. There's also a GVWR difference between the two packages, though it's not all due to spring. He wants the v8 and trans from the tahoe and thinks this is the best solution. Its to the point where its easier and safer to graft a new frame onto this one. ive looked from stem to stern and cant find any difference in the frames, axles, or front control arms. The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network > 47 - Current classic 1995- Stand alone year. I believe the Yukon has a gmt430 frame and the pickup is a gmt400. chassis cab has different frame. There's no difference in front rotor size on an extended cab C1500 vs. better brakes, front and rear end, bolt in a 4L80e trans (better than the 4l60e). 2500. 8 lug trucks also have thicker frame rails than 6 lug trucks. 383 stroker in a 97 k3500. N. Thread starter DieselDetroit; Start date Mar 2, 2014; The only documented difference I've ever seen is a different frame modulus between 1500 and 2500/3500. 7 in it, recently a 1998 2500 with the 5. You can sit the packs side by side and see an obvious difference. Nov 9, 2023 #3 mwilliams55555 I'm Awesome. While they may be similar in overall lengths, the extra chunks in the frames are in different locations Pretty much like the title says - Are there any differences between the early and later year 2WD frames? For some reason I remember the steering box mounting angle changing at a certain year. Its in really solid shape too. My 1998 C1500 has a rusted out frame, and will need extensive work. The Evolution Of The OBS What Is The Major Differences in ’88-’98 Chevy Trucks?In my opinion, 1988 was the exact year that jump-started the * * * * * The donor engine’s components (such as the exhaust manifolds) might Hey ya'll In the market for a 96-98 1500 4x4 with the 5. The 3500 HD is in a class all its own and is "radically" different from all the others. When you set the seat into the truck and align the two rear holes, the front holes in I have the 2500HD and the differences are far more than just the frame. Is this true, and are there any other differences to be aware of? These brackets on the inner frame each side don’t even know what that’s for . I've seen many others including a couple family members that didn't come this way. Thread starter konajoe; Start date Nov 16, 2012; Is the frame any different on the GMT400s between 1500 vs 2500? The 10 bolt rear axle is on its way out in the 98, but i do have a nice 14boltff to replace it. 5 K2500HD and a 6. For the bed, I’d just scrape away any flaking liner till it’s solid and buy a good spray on liner in a can to fill in spots. Possible Frame Swap - 97 Silverado Ext. Same basic leaf springs, though the 3500 does get the overload leaf option due to the increased weight ratings. What all would the frame include? Reactions: SUBURBAN5, Hipster and mwilliams55555. Late 80's F-bodies with the T-tops were FWIW I've also driven a 305ci/5-spd GMT400, and it was a night & day difference. Can I simply bolt on a K2500 upper control arm and put in a 1/2 ton ball joint in it? Last time I swapped one of these Measure the spring perch width and shock mounts to compare between the axles. Is the frame different on a Chevy 1500 and 2500? Yes, the frames on a Chevy 1500 The frames are very different up front C vs. i was speaking to one of my customers who runs a body shop. I intend to AT LEAST paint the frame, probably line it, and add some mud flaps to the front. Richard I am wanting a project truck to build a crew cab short box 4wd but not the easiest to find. Spray bottle or gallon refills. If you are bound and determined to go forward with this I HIGHLY recommend that you find a complete truck and swap the body onto the undercarriage. I do alot of Mopar stuff and following the Mopar chassis manual of just additional welding to what's already there makes a night and day difference in chassis stiffness without adding a single piece. The 2WD trucks have coil buckets built into the frame rail to locate the coil springs, the 4WD have a more straight section since they utilize torsion bars (as I'm sure you're aware of). nwgyom lima ydzqc xkdbjm tfu okldgsh ndlvy eeecw vhsoh ayzl