Best square body transmission Under the seat is a perfect spot to mount all of the controllers, as was done in this 1986 C10. As for disc brakes SSB "Stainless steel brake" company makes great mod kits, but the price is a big factor. Not optional equipment, optional just the one that came most commonly when Joe blow went to the dealership in 1980 what ever and said I'll take the green one. 42 gears 12 MPG best avg 50/50 city hwy 84 Crewcab dually, 454, TH400 w/ Doug nash 2-speed OD. 5" tires. I really want to go to a 5 speed to get an overdrive. I'd like to find a good core but don't Here’s our list of the best square body-style pickups, including some from the transitional era that shaped the square body legacy, along with how we can help you elevate your truck’s potential. Transmission & Transfer Case. Jun 11, 2019 · Joined Aug 13, 2013 Posts 1,090 Reaction score 1,255 Location Independence, Or First Name Joshua Truck Year 1984 Truck Model K20 Engine Size 5. Check out our guide on LS manual transmission options for more resources on selecting the best LS transmission for your squarebody Chevy. Some floor trimming for 6-speed maybe required. My questions are: 1) Would be easier to to get the donor transfer case or an adaptor for between the new transmission and the old transfer case? Nov 22, 2014 · Joined Nov 22, 2014 Posts 1,418 Reaction score 1,765 Location HOUSTON TX First Name Mi Hung Lo Truck Year 85/86/87 Truck Model c10/k10/k20 Engine Size LSX Squarebody C10 (2wd) Heavy Duty, Fabricated, Adjustable Transmission Crossmember designed for LS Swaps with 4L60E transmissions (but could also be used with other transmissions). Ultimately, I think I'm going to end up with a 4. - Insert 2 1/4 NPSM to -6 AN fittings into the Transmission cooler ports ($16 for pair) 1969- 1991 Chevrolet and GMC Square Body Trucks Starting at $34,500. 3 or 6. The heavy duty assembly bolts in place and is built in-house using 10 gauge steel that is laser cut and fully welded for strength then powder coated black for great, long lasting looks. a. Speedway Motors new TorqLink Transmission Crossmember is designed specifically for the GM Square Body ('73-'87). 0122, 7am-10pm CST, everyday. Feb 13, 2025 · Understanding the Square Body Platform. Typically found on 4WD applications, this cover allows for additional transmission to floor clearance. Aug 7, 2020 · IIRC, you're preference should be a 95 or newer one. It is bone stock and completely unmolested with 86,000 miles. 3ish being less of a step for when 1:1 direct is too steep in hills. A search of mid 90's GM luxury cars, Buick, Caddy, Olds, will reveal some heavy duty axles that have disc brakes and can be adapted with some fab work. Drop Us a REVIEW or give our Facebook Business page a “Like” . Any thoughts on a good engine to use? I’m looking for an economical, well built engine with more power than my old engine. Chevrolet C10 May 3, 2012 · Completely re-doing your Transmission cooling lines and adding aux system: - Remove the Hard lines between your trans and radiator. Square Body ID Guide Infographic. The additional fluid capacity has a great impact on cooling efficiency and recieves little mention. Add to Cart. For driveshafts, I would definitely suggest getting new ones built and tell the shop your exact setup/planned upgrades. Sep 30, 2021 · Being from the ’80s, this Suburban may not seem like a “classic” in the traditional sense, but it shares much of its styling with the popular GM “square-body” trucks of the 1973-’91 generation, and most of its mechanical makeup traces back even further than that. 25" pipes), I'm running an electric fuel pump and regulator, electric fans x2 on a 3 core radiator. Remove the adapters on your transmission. From rust-to-options-to-suspension, this should give you a good sta Nov 20, 2023 · I think its do-able but unsure how it would fit. Apr 11, 2023 · The new American Powertrain Square Body kit includes everything needed to install a 4×4 TR-4050 5-speed 4WD transmission including an aluminum CNC machined Bellhousing, Hydramax hydraulic clutch and components, flywheel and bolts, trans mount, pilot bearing, harness, and shifter, shifter knob, transfer case adapter for 10-spline NP205 and all Five-speed Pro-Fit Kit prices start at $3,995 including the transmission, and are ready to ship now. Speedway Feb 8, 2022 · Joined Feb 8, 2022 Posts 5 Reaction score 5 Location california First Name john Truck Year 1986 Truck Model k30 (m1028) Engine Size 6. With that […] Apr 1, 2025 · GM Square Body - 1973 - 1987 GM Truck Forum. 7 Jun 5, 2024 · You don’t need a specific square body ls swap wiring harness; the universal harnesses are sufficient. Shop 4L80E, Transmission Crossmembers and get Free Shipping on orders over $175 at Speedway Motors. 50" Material Type: Steel. Call 800. First of all I pulled the transmission shortly after purchasing because it wouldn't shift right (couldn't even find the right Oct 5, 2020 · The 1973 model year introduced an all-new third-generation for the C/K series Chevy pickup line, including a new look that became colloquially known as the “square body,” also sometimes The Best Square Body Cars. The factory cooler in the radiator first and the Hayden afterwards, in a series. The third-gen models featured squared-off front and rear fascias, subtle body contours honed by wind-tunnel testing, a more accommodating and ergonomic interior, and even an available crew-cab body, a style decades ahead of its time. Apr 19, 2020 · I am wanting to start looking for a 4L80e transmission for my 1 Ton Dually. Then again, I have never owned a 2wd square with the SM465, only 4x4. Just take a look to get an idea of things. It looks like jegs sells a well built replacement engine but the reviews say that lots Dec 13, 2021 · As pretty much everything but a photo copier has been bolted to a 350 small block, and a 350 small block is the same pattern as a 4. k. The cooler in my SS functions solo, the transmission cooler lines in my radiator are unused. TorqLink™ 73-87 C10 Square Body Transmission Crossmember. 8 or 5. There are many different types of square body cars, but some of the most popular include: Chevrolet C10; GMC C1500; Ford F-150; Dodge D150; Plymouth Fury; Each of these cars has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, but they all offer a classic, square body design that is sure to turn heads. Shift Kits, Conversions, Adapters, Twin Stick, etc. Nov 5, 2024 · About this item . Bolt-In Installation: The TorqLink transmission crossmember is designed for 1973-87 Compatible with Chevy C10 square body trucks and uses factory frame rail holes, eliminating the need for drilling or custom modifications. 7 with a SM465. Please post fuel mileage, and current combination. Talk to the experts. For a quick reference, we put together this infographic to illustrate yearly changes during the Square Body generation. Apr 11, 2023 · Cookeville, TN (April 11, 2023) – With Chevy/GMC Square Bodies all the rage, American Powertrain the nation’s leading distributor of TREMEC transmissions, is introducing a Square Body Chevy/GMC 4×4 kit for the TREMEC TR-4050™ 5-speed, 4WD manual transmission designed to fit 1973 – 1987 pickups and SUVs including Suburbans, Jimmys and Chevy Blazers. What was the most common rear gear put in a square with a th350? What was the most common rear gear put in a square with a 700r4. Feb 23, 2018 · I've run this combo on more than a few square body Chevy's and been happy with it. My research shows it’s too heavy and tall for my application. Might as well go up to an extra gear since I'm doing a lot of travelling. I am putting this into my '86 Sierra Classic 1500 and currently have a TH350 transmission, dual exhaust set-up (header back & 2. Now I’ve seen quite a few 12v Cummins and some older 2 stroke Detroit swaps. Aug 30, 2014 · As stated in banner, looking for comparisons. May 14, 2019 · Joined May 14, 2019 Posts 447 Reaction score 144 Location US First Name Dawson Truck Year 1978 Truck Model C20 Silverado Camper Special Engine Size 350 EASY STEP BY STEP HOW TO SET IT UP CORRECTLY, Square Body Chevy C10 Build. I do know the older vehicles just let the transmission hang off the bellhousing with the transmission mount, and the cross member was only for e-brake. They were originally equipped with various gasoline engines, but the demand for more torque and fuel efficiency has led many enthusiasts to consider diesel swaps. 08 gears. Jun 3, 2020 · Whether Chevrolet or GMC, the General’s third-generation, “square-body” trucks were a dramatic departure from the company’s previous efforts. Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. Transform the performance of your 1973-1987 Chevy/GMC Square Body 4WD truck with this TR-4050 5-speed transmission kit. I thought it would probably be be best to make it as easy as possible on my first install. Up for sale is an extremely rare, all original classic V30 (aka K30) 1987 1 Ton 4x4 pickup with Custom Deluxe trim (same as GMC Sierra trim. Mar 16, 2023 · Joined Sep 18, 2019 Posts 1,234 Reaction score 1,556 Location indiana First Name ken Truck Year 81 Truck Model c10 Engine Size 250 May 2, 2024 · The Square Body C10 came to an end along with the C10 generation as a whole. Top Selling Product – Visit Shop to See More What’s a Squarebody Truck? A squarebody truck is a type of pickup truck that was manufactured by General Motors (GM) from 1973 to 1987 & 1988 to 91 Crewcabs, Suburban, Jimmys, Blazer. Nov 9, 2012 · Joined Nov 9, 2012 Posts 3,121 Reaction score 3,199 Location Montana First Name Mike Truck Year 1977 Truck Model K20 5" lift Engine Size HT383 fuel injected In this video, we’re breaking down the top 3 things to look for when buying a squarebody. 00. NV3500 is probably too weak, NV5600 is a 6 speed and costs even more - only advantage is it's 4th gear of 1. Popular options include modern overdrive automatic and manual transmissions. unclebucksstuff Jul 1, 2022 · There's some differences for the 4x4s over mine, but if you have Facebook, join up on the "LS Swapped Square Body GM Trucks ('73-'86 C/K & '87-'91 R/V)" page. 73 axle was ideal on the highway, and the engine would still spin the tires in low gear. Mar 15, 2024 · The bulletproof SM465 four-speed manual transmission was frequently used in these square-body trucks. Multiple mounting hole options to the factory frame bolt holes, and slotted transmission bushing mounting holes for complete adjustability. 1987 was the last year for the square body pickup and the first year for the fuel injected TBI. Jun 25, 2020 · I'm weighing my options with engine\transmission swap options. 2 Join Our Facebook Group . Chevrolet C/K Series (1973-1987) The Chevrolet C/K Series defines the square body era. I have a TH400 right now that needs to be gone through. Aug 3, 2023 · Starting a 4L80E information thread for those that want to learn more about this transmission (the best GM ever produced in my humble opinion), considering it for a resto-swap into a Squarebody truck or K5 Blazer (or anything for that matter) and/or considering taking on a rebuild of this transmission. Four Wheeler reader Mark wants to tow and do a little off-roading too with a Cummins-swapped Chevy Pickup. Best Replacement for TBI 350 Oil Cooler lines? Jun 14, 2017 · I got a B&M truck MegaShifter in my K5 Square. Apr 4, 2014 · I know for like G body cars, El Camino, Olds Cutlass and such there is an aftermarket crossmembers due to them being Unibody, the frame doesn't go all the way back so many times to use a 700r4 or Th400 on one of those bodies you can't use the OEM crossmember because it runs out of frame to slide the crossmember back, so you need one kind of Jun 18, 2021 · There’s been a lot of buzz in recent years around 1973-’87 Chevrolet light trucks (and their GMC counterparts), aka “square bodies. 1. Jan 22, 2025 · Hello fellow square body owners, I recently bought my first squarebody (1987 gmc) and it was swapped from an sm465 to a Muncie m20 but it was done extremely poorly. 99 /each. . A complete replacement of your vehicle’s factory power train to the 6. You can build a 4l60e to handle some extra power if needed though. Wiring is going to be tough with a motor swap into the old chassis Apr 27, 2022 · Anyway, if I do an LS swap, I'm looking at a 5. The square body trucks, produced by Chevrolet and GMC from 1973 to 1987, are loved for their boxy design and robust construction. They're also commonly used in Dodges but then you get into different shaft lenghts and clutch plates to fit Dodge, so it's best to find a GM unit, but if you're out looking for one, just know that Dodge used them too so don't let someone sell you a Dodge NV4500 that'll need conversions done. Unless you are building a mega-horsepower engine, the stock ECM is actually the BEST option for any LS swap plan. Thanks for the suggestion. Nov 25, 2019 · Transmission Tunnel- 4WD Rear Cover - 73-80 Chevy GMC C/K Truck AMD Premium reproduction high hump transmission tunnel cover for the 73-80 Chevy / GMC Squarebody Pickup Truck. Overall Length: 33" Centerline of Holes: 31. 6 Liter LBZ/LMM Duramax Turbo Diesel Engine (standard engine option) Aug 13, 2013 · Additionally, for the record, I run two coolers in my square bodied trucks. 4wd Conversion Coming this Winter. Also thought about just doing the front end of the square body, with some metal work to line up with the door. The number-one reason being 1973 to 1987 Chevy C10 trucks were produced for 15 Apr 25, 2024 · For a modern GM transmission swap, Speedway Motors offers a 4l80E swap mock-up transmission to test fit sensors, transmission pan clearance, and mounts. Qjet, SP2P, headers Feb 1, 2021 · My 82 square body had a mild 350, TH350, and 29. Nov 20, 2012 · You can spend $500 or more on adapters to make a cheaper transmission work for instance and you wont find comparably good transmissions for $1000 or less saving nothing. ” Whatever you choose to call them, these boxy trucks are popular because they’re widely available at affordable prices, there’s an abundant parts supply, they’re simple to work on, and they’re a blank slate for… Dec 24, 2014 · Joined Dec 24, 2014 Posts 16 Reaction score 0 Location Missouri First Name Cole Truck Year 1974 Truck Model K10 Engine Size 350 #5: The New Venture NV4500 (a. Tons of good info there. I think its a cool ass project. Jun 21, 2012 · The plan right now is to install the engine, transmission and ECU as one package (don't break it apart), using the stock wiring harness. Mine is a 454 TBI and the Dana 70hd rear end. Features: Compatible with the original bell housing, flywheel, clutch linkage, and most OE-spec clutches Apr 13, 2023 · The new American Powertrain Square Body kit includes everything needed to install a 4×4 TR-4050 5-speed 4WD transmission including an aluminum CNC machined Bellhousing, Hydramax hydraulic clutch and components, flywheel and bolts, trans mount, pilot bearing, harness, and shifter, shifter knob, transfer case adapter for 10-spline NP205 and all necessary hardware. 2L and 6l80e. Feb 20, 2023 · Transmission Upgrades: Upgrading the transmission can improve the Square Body’s performance and fuel efficiency. ) Odometer shows 99k miles and title reflects actual mileage. $167. Differential and Transfer Case A GM 10- or 12-bolt axle is found at the rear of Chevrolet half-ton trucks from 1973 to 1987. Dec 13, 2021 · Cummins Diesel Swap for a Square Body Chevy: What You Need to Know. 3,305,327, etc etc I would say that the sky is the limit, personally I would be doing some research to see what was used in the 88/89/90/91 model years with the crossover body styles and go from there, I think you will find the best interchangeability there. NVG4500) The NV4500 was released in GM trucks in 1993 (Dodge versions in 1995) through a joint-venture between General Motors and Chrysler Corporation, thus forming the New Venture Company (a naming derivative of Chrysler’s New Process division, and GM’s Stewart / Muncie division). 979. I really have no need for a granny low in this thing. I actually kind of like the three speed, but I plan on cruising a lot in this pickup so I'm thinking I ought to convert to an OD transmission. I tried to measure but its difficult , has anyone used these or know if 50 inch will be long enough, they sell 70 inch but I dont want to much excess Gen 3 & Holley C10 Square Body & OBS Swap Pedal (1997 - 2007) 9 Pin The C10 Swap pedal is a direct bolt in pedal for the 67-72 C10, 73-87 Squarebody, & 88-98 OBS GM trucks for use with GEN 3 only Drive by Wire Applications Have you decided you want more power and reliability in your old square body? You also want to use a 4 speed manual transmission? Your in luck because in thi Nov 11, 2018 · hi all! I’m thinking of replacing my tired old 78 k10 350 with a new crate motor. Choose either TREMEC TKX 5 or Magnum 6-speed. Apr 11, 2017 · Ok this is purely for a little math problem I am working on. Jul 28, 2021 · Hello , I would like to remove my old dented and patched trans lines, I would like to do 6AN braided, i see kits with 50 inch pre made lines. Call me an exception to the rule, but I thought its 2. American Powertrain Pro-Fit kits for 73-87 Chevy/GMC C1500. SILVERADO, BLAZER,JIMMY,GMC, SUBURBAN HATS & T-SHIRTS: https://www. 3 swap as my power plant, although I'm still toying with the idea of a BBC. I know there’s a bit of difference to a square body, but I doubt it would fit without major mods. I have search through the posts and most of what I have found is relating to 4x4 swaps I looked into the DT 466 for a possible swap in my 93 F350 with the idit. Mine: 78 GMC LWB 4x4, vortec headed 350, Qjet, headers, 31's, and 3. Electrical Upgrades: Restomodding can also upgrade the Square Body’s electrical system with modern components such as high-output alternators Mar 5, 2020 · I may be wrong here, but I don't think there is a cross member on the back of the SM465. This should be one of the most straightforward swaps (famous last words). 0 drive by wire setup with a 4l60e transmission. Feb 17, 2023 · What are some things I need to know for the swap. Some nice pointers. Nov 2, 2024 · Classic's top recorded 1979 square body Chevy truck sale for the period brought $165,000 at the same January 2023 Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale Arizona as the 1973 square body discussed above. Stay away from a 4l60e and go with the 4l80e or 6l80e to avoid transmission issues. Description. I would personally go with a 6. -Chevy Squarebody 1 Ton Crew Cab Dually: 12 valve Cummins P-Pump Swap, NV4500HD, SBC 425HP Clutch, 5x11 injectors, 055 DV's, built/balanced pump. As for which way is best, i'd rather see it on a newer frame personally. I now have a 69 C10 with essentially the same engine, trans, and tire height, but with 3. Stock they can have some issues with higher power or getting abused. Apr 3, 2020 · The slang name is "square-body," and there are a lot of good reasons to buy a 1973 to 1987 Chevy C10 or GMC truck. The C1500 went on to become the Silverado, which remains Chevrolet’s most popular truck to this day. All Pro-Fit kits are covered by American Powertrain’s two-year warranty, and come with free comprehensive tech support. Been working flawlessly for 7 years. Shop today. I found the Tejas page with the swap overview. Apr 6, 2014 · I have a 1987 R10 5.