53' Chevy truck

[xeroinfinity]

I am helping someone work on thier truck.
Its a 53' Chevy on a 85-86' Blazer(4x4) frame.

Was look at making it a pick up again.
Was wondering if anyone knew what year(s) of frames would work on the 53'.

Wanting something with independant suspension too,
probley late 70's maybe an 80's frame.

Any info is much appreciated!

thankx

[hotrod_chevyz]

You might look at the older chevy trucks that had 4 link rear suspension. The coil suspension ride quality is smoother than a typical leaf spring rear axle.

[xeroinfinity]

Thanks for the idea!

Finding the right wheel base is the most important thing.

It probly doesnt matter on suspension to much because it'll be either lowered or an air ride.
We're still playing around with ideas.

I'd rather start with a frame then to try and fab one from scratch.
Finding something thats usable is where the problems will begin.

[Blue Bowtie]

I did a similar thing when I had a '50. The '73-later frame worked well for me. IK had to shorten the frame for the body, but it was no big chore. Cut and overlap the channels, weld on the cab mounts and runnning board brackets in the right places, and drop the cab on:



I used a '74 half-ton Checvy frame to start.

[xeroinfinity]

That looks like a good start Blue Bowtie.

I was thinking the 70's model would work, but wasnt certain.

Thankx

[hotrod_chevyz]

Another option you have is to find a camaro front subframe and rear axle. weld the front sub to the frame you already have. That works very well and will be easier to get suspension upgrades or wheels and other things later on.