Frame off restoration vs Frame swap

Our project is moving, be it slow….but another year before my son will be able to drive it.

We have stripped everything, have a GMC 3500 rear, a Chevy Dana 60 kingpin, transfer case.

We have cleaned up and painted the original frame and done some body work.

We are looking for the right motor and trans at the moment and the dana 60 needs a complete rebuild to include outer knuckles, axle shafts, and probably spindles.

I’m estimating about 4K between the motor, transmission, axle parts, and miscellaneous items for fabrication and mounting everything.

And then I read the post about a frame swap and thought…..maybe that is the way.

My son’s big thing is the look of the truck and wants it to be powerful.

Feedback from the group - continue with the original plan or find a donor truck with a running motor and decent driveline.

Cost and PITA fee, the donor almost seems like a better path.

Looking for pros and cons to help us decide.

Either way, we are looking and planning to buy the last few big ticket items in July or August and prep for the fall push to have this drivable by January.

Thanks in advance.


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