87 front clip on 73 cab?

[mattman4x4]

Hi I did a few searches and could not find what I need:

I have a 73 cab, and need a new front clip. I can get an 87 front clip tomorrow. How compatible is it with a 73 cab?
Help please

Matt

 

[mattman4x4]

I found this thread, and it looks like modification is necessary....that is not happening....sigh

http://www.fullsizechevy.com/forum/...ech/337653-73-87-round-square-front-clip.html

 

[sweetk30]

http://coloradok5.com/grilleswap.shtml

this might help.

 

[mattman4x4]

thanks!~ Ill look over it.
are the inner fenders from 73-80 different than the 81-87?

matt

 

[sweetk30]

73-80 = 1 whole front clip

81-91 = 1 whole front clip.

 

[blazinzuk]

Its mostly the hinges that are the problem

I know a couple guys who have done it and they said not even close to worth the time it takes to do it right.

 

[mattman4x4]

Yep I agree, too much trouble. I am gonna look for a 73-80 front clip

thanks for all the advice

 

[ryoken]

it's even harder to put a 73-80 clip on the laters...

 

[mattman4x4]

ryoken, I read that thread where you discussed that, and that dose look worse that putting the newer clip on the old cab.
I am at the point where the beast needs to run, and no extra problems should be taken on.

 

[ryoken]

iirc, from many threads on that yrs ago in here... old on new was tougher.. hinges, hood clearance, wipers, rad support, etc...

heck, even i opted to keep my gen clip, and i love the old clips...

but i will have round headlights dammit!

 

[kevin400ex]

i converted my 73 to an 88 front clip. the fenders and core support was a easy bolt on deal. the hood hinges did require a little cutting of the cowl area, and i just welded the hinges on since there wasnt enough metal in the area to bolt them to.