ANYONE swapped another body onto your frame.

[PaPitt]

I have a 1989 D250 2WHEEL DRIVE 5.9 DIESEL .
Have any of you guys swapped another body onto your frame. I've always wanted a 1955 ish Studebaker body ... But I've found a 1954 Dodge D100 .. I've not gotten down to trading for it.
.... But this seems interesting also .
.any one know if the body mounts are ... easy to make fit or . The most difficult swap every .
............
..... I don't want a rat rod but ... but a 54 body & a 89 motor & frame setup .
P/S P/B DISK . MAYBE even AC at some point.. Oh & it's an automatic.
.......................
...........
..... I'VE SEEN several of these kinds of old truck . BUT NOT SURE WHICH WAY TO GO.
ANY THOUGHTS

 

[reek]

I'd start by measuring wheel base and track width. after that, it's a matter of time, plasma cutters, welding, some cursing and plenty of beer.

 

[PaPitt]

I hate to admit I'm probably better at the cussing & beer drinking at the rest.
& I'm thinking it's a compliment to the OLD DODGE to be drafted onto the Diesel Framework on the very 1st from anywhere USA .
BUT I still want a Studebaker.
........ But this old Dodge tr is the best one I'VE FOUND IN 10 YEARS.
BEST MEANING SOLID .

 

[u2slow]

The main thing with the newer frames are the shape (cab sits low), and rail width. Dodge is 38" through most of it. Most older trucks are 34". It also take a lot of engine bay to fit a cummins... you may be into firewall mods.

If shopping for a 2wd chassis/suspension by itself, a 71-87 chevy truck is a better platform. All diesels had factory hydroboost. These also retained a 34" frame.

 

[PaPitt]

THANKS U2 Slow .. I'VE NOT BEEN SURE of th width on the older trucks. But mine is 38 for sure.
.. & That's one of the reason why I'VE BEEN WANTING TO FIND A STUDEBAKER
FOR It's length in the motor department area .
... As I've seen THOSE STUDEBAKERS just seem to be larger .

 

[PaPitt]

I saw a 1941 CHEVY tr with a Detroit 471 what looked to me like on a Chevy 4x4 Maybe Blazer frame ..
BUT While not finished . Man it was above the frame . . Nice Body but . Motor was too large . & Body was over frame .
.. It was at a high school shop class kids are doing for a state project. If it rolls & crawls I guess it'll be find.