I have a first gen pickup 2wd that I want to convert to 4x4. I found a nice second gen 4x4 for cheap, so I was wondering if I could just lift the body off the 2nd gen and replace it with my 1st gen body? Basically using the frame, engine, suspension, everything from the 2nd gen 4x4 but just putting the 1st gen body on top of it.

Both trucks are single cab. is this possible?

 

I don't have any experience with this, nor have I ever seen one done. I would think taking a few measurements from your cab, and checking the frame from the 2nd gen would get you an answer pretty easily.

 

I would but I don't have the 2nd gen yet. Local guy is selling it and wanted to know if this was doable before I made the purchase.

 

If he won't let you measure it then I wouldn't buy it, so take a tape with you to look at it?

 

Q: Just...?
A: No.

There is cab side wiring involved. Which should be a big issue if you buy a complete and working donor.

Iirc the cab mounts are different. Nothing a cut and weld wouldn't fix.

I'm trying to recall why the torsion bars are an issue other than being on different control arms, but not getting anything out of ye'old brain.

Track width is as I recall in the rim offset. Still nothing hammering some pinch welds and maybe flip flopping some rims.

..
Both of these Factory service manuals are not that hard to find online. You'll find all the relevant frame dimensions in those. You'll need the books to do the electrical work unless you're OK with swapping the whole dash and electrical bits (the dash/body curves do not match 100%)..

Probably some bits I've forgotten.