New to the forum and I have a question

[shortwide80]

Hey boys,

I’m new to the community and I have a question for ya’ll. I have a 1979 GMC shortwide. Would a 1981 front clip bolt on?

 

[born2Run83]

Hello and welcome! Are you talking about the grille clip or something in the front suspension?

 

[dvdswan]

There are several modifications that would need to be done to swap an 81 and new front clip on an 80 and older C/K.

 

[1973c10]

Welcome

 

[John-Ryan]

Welcome from Texas!

 

[Babs]

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[Corvette Ed]

Welcome aboard from East Tennessee.

 

[AyWoSch Motors]

Welcome from New Mexico.

If you mean just the grill, or the actual core support, no, not interchangeable. If you mean the entire "front clip" consisting of fenders, core support, grill, bezels, hood, etc., yes, physically swappable, although I believe the bolts on the cab may not line up with the 81 fenders. Will still fit, but you'll have to make you own, hole/nut backer.
73-80 have are the same (first gen or "round eye" square), and 81-87 are the same (second gen "square light" squares).