71 Jimmy 2x4 to 4x4 ?

[LesPaul]

Hi, I've been looking for a first generation K5 or Jimmy to have as a daily driver. Well I found a 71 Jimmy in great shape (cheap!) but it's a two wheel-drive. I was wondering how hard it would be to buy a similar year model 4x4 truck and just swap out the front running gear and transmission. Or, if i should just keep looking?

Also what year model 4x4 trucks would work best with the 71 2x4 Jimmy?

 

[bp71k5]

You can find a 69-72 4x4 truck and swap over everything. You need the steering box, axle, transfer case and shifter, crossmember, driveshafts, transmission tunnel cover. Depending on the year truck you find, you may want to keep the brakes or switch to discs with the matching master cylinder.

 

[KansasTwister]

most guys ive seen buy nice 4x4s and swap them to 2wds, probably wouldnt be hard to find someone to frame swap with.

 

[67_C-30]

most guys ive seen buy nice 4x4s and swap them to 2wds, probably wouldnt be hard to find someone to frame swap with.

Agreed. 69 - 72 2WD Blazers/Jimmys are very desireable. If you get it, you can no doubt use it to get a 4X4 model, and probably a nicer one to boot.

 

[jtrux]

Yeah don't bother converting it, just buy it and post a trade add on 67-72chevy trucks and you will have tons of offers for trades.

 

[LesPaul]

Thanks Brian Its not that hard to find 4wd trucks in those year models where I live (easier than finding Blazers and Jimmys that year model).