I have been sniffing around alot on the internet trying to find info about doing a S-10 frame swap on my 49. I have noticed that the most recommended S-10 frame is the regular cab long box (117.9 wheelbase). My 49 is a 3600 and has a wheelbase of i think 125.75. I am pretty sure from what i have seen that the extended cab S-10 wheelbase is 122. this would be pretty close to what i think i need (someone correct me if i'm wrong). I haven't seen on here anyone talking about swaping with 3600 which is longer than 3100. Anyway, I am going to do full custom on this project but i have only just got the truck torn down. I am in West Point, MS and looking for an extended cab frame and suspension. Also, while i have this thread open let me ask if anyone can help with steering? I am planning on going with a 350 engine and was wandering what my options will be with steering and steering boxes? will the stock s-10 stuff work?
If you didnt want to do a full frame you could always do a front clip... nova or camaro. Or just buy a mustang 2 front clip.
I agree that the front clip option sounds appealing but when i factor in the cost of the mustang II and then with my skill level getting everything lined back up is out of my league. However if it weren't for the cost i would probably go that route because I have seen some really tough looking upgrades to the mustang II.
I have been looking for a s-10 donor as well. I am in California. Do you have a 1 ton or 3/4 ton truck?
The 3600 (3/4 ton) id the same cab/front sheet metal as the 3100 (!/2 ton) It even has the same front springs. The 1/2 ton axle/spindles bolt in in place of the 3/4 ton stuff giving you access to many options for brakes and front suspension lowering without welding. The rear axle is already an open rear end but is 8 bolt, huck brakes on a 49, and 4.57 gears so there are many reasons to swap to a later axle. Many people have shortened the bed to whatever size they need. If you feel the mustang two is beyond your skill level what makes you feel you can line up/fabricate etc a frame swap? There are bolt in mustang two kits made so if you feel welding is the issue that is another option. There are mobile welding services that can come to you and do the final welding if you have everything tacked in place for reasonable dollars. There are some well done s-10 swaps I like Flippers here on the AD group- but it has pro's and con's as well as anything else does. My truck is a 50 3/4 ton so I have been going thru much of the same research you have- for me the 1/2 ton axle swap makes the most sense. I like the longer bed but have seen shortened 3/4 tons fitted with the shorter 1/2 ton bed. Do what makes your truck right for you but evaluate carefully the s-10 swap. It is not as easy as many people seem to think. Check with the AD social group here- many very helpful people including some who have done this swap. They are less judgemental about the swap but can give you some real insight into what is truly involved and how much work it really is. Goon luck with your truck. Jim
...I'd shorten your truck to 1/2 ton wheelbase and build it that way. it'll look better, and have a much better resale value down the road. You can shorten your bed, runnin boards and splash aprons to fit....just my 2 cents. good luck with it , looks like a good project.
I guess I was under the impression that by using the s10 frame that the geometry would already be set then all I would have to do is the body and engine mounts and line that up instead of the steering and such. I am comfortable with that, but if that still has to be changed then clip swap may be better, hell I don't know I am still in planning mode I guess LOL
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