80 20r 2wd to 81 22r 4wd conversion

[Jeromy Hess]

I have a has been 81 22r 4wd out back. Body is shot, rebuildable block, 5 speed (overdrive quit, so actually only 4), long bed. I bought an 80 20r 2wd longbed 5 speed with a real nice body. Questions... can I put the 80 body on the 81 frame? Any input will be greatly appreciated. This is my first post. Thanks guys.

[GregoryM]

I have an '81 SR5 4x4. The cabs are identical. The front fenders are different and the cut outs for the rears are larger. You should be able to combine the best parts of the two however, it is an envolved project- time consuming! Good luck.

[Jeromy Hess]

Thanks Greg

Ya, I was afraid of that. I figured maybe new 4x4 front fenders, and possibly a custom job on the rear fenders... or just say screw it, get in touch with my redneck side, and slap on a flatbed!

Do you have any suggestions about trannies? I am on my second 5 speed (in my 81 4x4) and it is out, too. Overdrive keeps going out. Still runs, just 1 through 4. Should I just go with a 4 speed or maybe a 5 speed from a little later model?

[GregoryM]

The 5th gear is a "over hung" type. That means there is a bearing only on one side so. it is a weak design. I'm not aware of anything you can do about that. You might be able to fit a later 5 spd. from a newer truck but that could just exchange one problem for another. Synthetic gear lube might help your trans live a little longer between rebuilds. Merry Christmas.