How to identify what series frame I'm looking at?

[CSFJ]

If there's already a thread on this that someone knows about please post the link. Otherwise, I may be going to look at a frame this weekend and need to know how to identify if it's from a 1/2, 3/4, or 1 ton. The pic on c-list shows it sitting on 8 lug axles, and an aluminum t-case hanging off the back of the trans. But, as we all know, finding these trucks with there original equipment is a rare thing. My truck is a v20, so I want to stay with at least the 3/4 ton frame, but wouldn't complain at all about scoring a 1 ton. For some reason, I seem to recall reading that the 1/2 and 3/4 frames were the same? And the 1 ton had taller rails under the cab? Can't recall where I saw that, but would like to get an idea ahead of time to be able to identify what I'm actually looking at.

 

[foamypirate]

1-ton is taller under the cab, you are correct.

3/4-ton will use a thicker steel in the frame than the 1/2-ton; I'll try and find the measurements if I can.

This doesn't apply in your case, but if it's a crewcab, 3/4-tons used a 1-ton frame (and thus have the taller channel).

 

[CSFJ]

If you happen to find those measurements that'd be great. Yeah, mines just a standard cab long box.

 

[yevgenievich]

Gm heritage center has info on frame thickness in model documentation

 

[CSFJ]

I was hoping there might be an easy visual giveaway, like certain bracing or such. I've seen the heritage site specs on here somewhere before, and if I remember correctly, the thickness of the different frames veried over the years from model to model. This is really gonna suck if I have to bring a micrometer, and a list of thicknesses for the 3/4 ton models.

 

[bucket]

IMHO, there's not a big enough difference between the 1/2 and 3/4 ton frames to be concerned about it. And I think a lot of the years, K10 and K20 shared the same thickness anyway.

 

[CSFJ]

Is there by chance, any character in the vin code that would designate what series the frame was from? Prividing the vin on the frame is still legible.

 

[J Knight]

Is there by chance, any character in the vin code that would designate what series the frame was from? Prividing the vin on the frame is still legible.

You must be registered for see images

 

[CSFJ]

Perfect. As long as I can still read the vin, should be easy.