2000 Frame Swap

Howza · #1 08-04-2016, 02:32 PM

I am new to this forum and I have a couple questions some of you may know. My frame from the cab back is rotted pretty bad (2000 2 x 4 Truck). I can get a used frame (2000 4x4 Truck) that looks like it matches and is in great shape. I am thinking of grinding the factory rivets at the frame connection between cab and rear, knock out, seperate frame members and swap with each other, bolt through, weld joints and bolts/nuts to frame. I can do the work, My truck has low miles and the rest is in great shape.

1. is the 2000 4 x 4 frame form cab back the same as the 2000 2 x 4 frame with exception to torsion bars?

2. Has anyone ever done this? Have some tips?

3. Is the frame welded at this joint as well? it does not appear to be?

Please Help!

rwilche1 · #2 08-04-2016, 04:22 PM

Plenty of people have done what you're talking about. I've watched a few YouTube videos of the process. As far as the compatibility, I can't really help you there. However I do know there are minute differences in the frame from year to year I believe. As long as it's the same length and width of your frame I would assume it would work. Again don't take me at my word on that! I feel you on the rust. I live down south but bought a rust bucket from up north! Had my frame blasted and had to repair a few spots myself.

Howza · #3 08-04-2016, 05:48 PM

Thanks for your input, I have done several patches and no more room for any more.. I did a test tonight, I grinded one of the heads of the rivets and punched it through. It took about 5 Minutes went smoothly. I am going to give it a shot. I will be back with results!

RAT Ranger · #4 08-05-2016, 07:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Howza

Thanks for your input, I have done several patches and no more room for any more.. I did a test tonight, I grinded one of the heads of the rivets and punched it through. It took about 5 Minutes went smoothly. I am going to give it a shot. I will be back with results!

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I knocked all 16 rivets out of a 99 I was gonna shorten up to put a 95 cab on as the 99 cab was tweaked from bein on its side.

All you need to do is drill a hole through the rivets (small to large bits of course) and take a drift & knock the heads off & then knock the rest of the rivet out. Lot easier than grinding IMO.

GL!