RandomTask

Can you do it? I have a lead on a cheap '96 cross member, want to install it on my '84. If I have all the associated suspension, can I bolt it into the frame? Or are the frame rails different on later years vs earlier years?

VikingTrad3r

you will need to get verification because I am not an authority on the subject yet, but I have looked into it because I need to replace my 87 crossmember after my wife ran over a rock. My understanding is that the suspension in the front is tied into the crossmembers and you cannot swap them. You will need an early crossmember. Even then, The 84 might even be standalone I'm not sure.

WVZR-1

Without having access to both to make a template of the mounting to the rails I would expect NOT!!

One difference for sure early to late frame rails is the upper shock mount so you would need to do a fabrication of sorts for that.

Aside from that you'd need the later steering rack OR do an inner tie rod swap early to late and that I believe could be an issue itself.

You mention '96 so you've also got engine mount bracket issues I'd think.

Very dependent upon a persons determination !!

RandomTask

To be clear, I have both cars entirely. The '84 was on the track and got popped in the side, ripping the steering rack mounts off so I need to replace the K member. I'm also tired of bending over backwards to source/replace the steering rack on my '85, I also have a '96 I'm about to part out. I was curious if I could pull the entire front suspension (with k member) from the '96 and swap it over to the '84; suspension and all.

And I have hammers, a welder, and a "can do!" attitude

MatthewMiller

I believe the reverse swap has been done: putting an early C4 crossmember into a later C4. The reason was that many feel the earlier suspension geometry was better, and that swap is legal in certain racing classes that don't allow custom-fabricated parts. But doing the swap would required the different steering rack and the newer suspension, I'm sure. Honestly, for track work a lot of folks would consider your plan a downgrade in handling. The later C4 front suspension has less scrub, which is generally good. But it also has a shitload more anti-dive, which is not good for handling.

WVZR-1

Unbolt & remove both - make a template of the attaching flange to the frame rails and compare.

KSA Aaron

The later cradle will physically bolt into the earlier chassis. I have done it both ways ('85-'87 into an '88 or later, as well as the later model that I bolted into my '87 to get the larger brakes, quicker ratio Z51 steering and better suspension).


The one major issue that you will face is the front swaybar mount as they are mounted in different locations with different mounts. You will just need to fabricate new mounts.


I wish you luck in your change...