so will the body(cab and bed complete) of a '82 4wd swap on to a 81' 2wd frame? with out to much fab... i ask because im starting to collect 2xR and the vehicles they came in...i now have lucy on the road and a RA64 notchback for my "rally" build. i found a 81 yesterday that i may buy this eve...t-boned but still drives sort of...it has a good but tired 22r and 4 speed $400. then i found a 82 4wd w/ no title and burnt wiring $900 but could talk down im sure. even if i did not get the 82 this time, in the future i could put a 4wd body on this 2wd frame... we'll see... god im addicted now...
I would assume they should. The only difference I would believe is in the transmission/transfer case shifter area.
the 2 front body mounts on the cab dont line up and you'll have to use the 2wd steering column. as long as they are both long beds or whatever beds are a direct swap. if you really need the bed you can use a short bed on a long bed, doubles as handy dog storage i had a tilt wheel in my wheeler needed to use the brake and clutch pedal bracket to fit the steering column, so it might be different if you dont have a tilt wheel. brake booster and hood/latch are also unique to 4wd.
so wait, lets see...they are both longbeds, other then the cab and bed what do i need and whats involved? do i need to grab the booster or pedal assembly or steering column?
leave whatevers inside the cab attached to the cab, once the cab is bolted on swap what you need to. unbolt from frame and motor. cept what i mentioned above everything is identical on both trucks, use whichever looks best and the easiest. cab swap takes 1 solid weekend by yourself, same amount of work as a eng swap.
well im lucky that my roomate is a big guy and he'll help, but ya it might take longer...just cuz im lazy and i work most days.
It would make it easier Pulling the cab of the frame without the motor it will be a headache unless u have a lift and can do it slowly straight up same goes for putting it back on it would be a wrestling Match if your doing it with just some buddies or you and a cherry picker . The motors come out very easy in these trucks it would be a good time for a degrease and clean up . Just my two cents
thanks guys, im new to auto repair and tunning. the red truck has been treating me real good and i like it stock.