Front end swap - 81 GMC

[Offroad Addiction]

So my first dumb question...

I am not a fan of the 81-82 front end, we bought it because it was super clean and I know you can swap the front end.

To swap to the dual headlight, is it as simple as just swapping the radiator support panel out?

To swap to the 73-79, you need the entire front end and some mods, correct?

 

[HotRodPC]

So my first dumb question...

I am not a fan of the 81-82 front end, we bought it because it was super clean and I know you can swap the front end.

To swap to the dual headlight, is it as simple as just swapping the radiator support panel out?

To swap to the 73-79, you need the entire front end and some mods, correct?

Sounds like you know what's up. You're correct.

 

[1987 GMC Jimmy]

I think you’ll have an easier time going to an 83-88 or 89-91 style front. The round eyes are pretty, but that’s more work, parts, and money. I agree with you, though, 81-82 has the ugliest front end in my opinion. It’s not bad, but when you see how it looks compared to the others, it bothers you.

 

[Offroad Addiction]

Sounds like you know what's up. You're correct.

Cool, thanks for confirming. I may have stuffed up as I ordered a "Dress up kit" for the 81 but later realized that it may not work if I swap the front but at least I can sell it... have never seen an 81-82 here except for my last GMC.

I think you’ll have an easier time going to an 83-88 or 89-91 style front. The round eyes are pretty, but that’s more work, parts, and money. I agree with you, though, 81-82 has the ugliest front end in my opinion. It’s not bad, but when you see how it looks compared to the others, it bothers you.

I don't mind spending the money in the long run, to be honest is it probably a better platform to start with having the np208 etc anyway rather than buying another older one. We will see... maybe it will grow on me but I'm not convinced

 

[Rusty Nail]

Round eyes for teh win!

 

[German_fall_guy]

I still looking for a 81-82 front bumper with turn signals

 

[Joe T]

They had the best looking dual headlight (not quad) setup from the 80’s. Especially with the right gray tinted LED headlight installed. In my opinion.

 

[Joe T]

Dual headlights but with this grill without the chevy emblem. Pretty good look.

Pics off google

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