Converting 89 r1500 into a 1 ton 2wd

[Vbb199]

Is something like this possible?
I know the biggest capacity of a suburban was a 3/4 Ton, and I have access to almost all of the components to convert mine to 3/4 Ton, but I was wondering if it's possible to convert a 2wd suburban into a 1 ton.
Would 1 ton control arms and spindles and all fit on a suburban?
Or would this require modifications?

Thanks in advance


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[eskimomann209]

I have heard that the frame differences between the 1/2 and 3/4 are negligible in some years. But I can’t imagine the 1 ton frame being similar to the 1/2 ton. Point i am trying to make Is upgrading the “suspension” to one ton isn’t going to increase payload more than the 3/4 ton. Frame is still the weak link here. Next you’ll be looking for a 1 ton truck frame and doing a body swap ( what is do If I needed it. Save a frame from being destroyed )

 

[Vbb199]

What if I added addition support to the frame
(tubular crossmembers, x bracing, boxing)?
I have the means to make a 1/2 ton frame stronger than a 1 ton frame


Edit: I'm not denying what you're saying.
Might just as we be easier to swap frames, but if I'm going that far, I'll be on the hunt for a later mod 4x4 k30 frame to put under it

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[Vbb199]

Most anything is possible I think, with hillbilly customz here in Salisbury NC

Im just looking to build Up a suburban that can pull heavy loads

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[Craig 85]

Are the front 2WD cross members the same between 1/2t and 3/4t? I'm sure with your skills you can beef up the frame, but is it easier doing the frame swap?

Arrowcraft used to sell the fender conversion, but I don't see it on their site anymore. There are other companies, but I don't know if standard truck fenders fit the Suburban around the rear doors.
http://www.duallyfendersfiberglasstruck.com/#CHEVY/GMC

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[Vbb199]

Are the front 2WD cross members the same between 1/2t and 3/4t? I'm sure with your skills you can beef up the frame, but is it easier doing the frame swap?

Arrowcraft used to sell the fender conversion, but I don't see it on their site anymore. There are other companies, but I don't know if standard truck fenders fit the Suburban around the rear doors.
http://www.duallyfendersfiberglasstruck.com/#CHEVY/GMC

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Probably easier to just swap frames, maybe while I'm at it just add an additional frame support in the middle or where I see fit.

A crew cab k30 frame would be ideal

Dad's got a 3/4 front he plasma cut off of a burb a long time ago.

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[bucket]

Are you thinking of going to a dually or keeping with single wheel?

 

[Vbb199]

Are you thinking of going to a dually or keeping with single wheel?

Srw

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[bucket]

Srw

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That makes it much easier then, because you really don't have to mess with the rear spring hangers and shock mounts unless you want to really mimic a 1 ton. A 14bolt FF from a 3/4 ton truck will bolt right in. As far as I know, the front suspension assembly is the same between a 3/4 and 1 ton, the 1 ton just uses s different steering knuckle, caliper and rotor.

I've got a roller C30 frame out back if you would like to see some pictures for comparison.

 

[bucket]

Do you have 56" rear springs already?

 

[Vbb199]

That makes it much easier then, because you really don't have to mess with the rear spring hangers and shock mounts unless you want to really mimic a 1 ton. A 14bolt FF from a 3/4 ton truck will bolt right in. As far as I know, the front suspension assembly is the same between a 3/4 and 1 ton, the 1 ton just uses s different steering knuckle, caliper and rotor.

I've got a roller C30 frame out back if you would like to see some pictures for comparison.

Maybe you need to slide that c30 frame my way......

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[68post]

How are you going to upgrade the brakes ?

 

[Vbb199]

How are you going to upgrade the brakes ?

You're asking about a larger brake booster? Or larger rear drum and front disc

If I had a 14b ff rear end I would convert to disc anyways, and front would have whatever size disc a 3/4 or 1 ton truck has.

 

[68post]

You're asking about a larger brake booster? Or larger rear drum and front disc

If I had a 14b ff rear end I would convert to disc anyways, and front would have whatever size disc a 3/4 or 1 ton truck has.

Well, no not a booster, just larger brakes overall like you'd have on a ton or hvy 3/4 ton. You've answered my question that you will address this upgrade also, since this likely is the most important aspect of hauling and towing.

 

[Vbb199]

Well, no not a booster, just larger brakes overall like you'd have on a ton or hvy 3/4 ton. You've answered my question that you will address this upgrade also, since this likely is the most important aspect of hauling and towing.

Oh of course!
I planned on upgrading the brakes, that will come with a bigger rear axle and front suspension

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