Hi recently bought a 97" 1500 with blown engine...long story short bought a rebuilt from southwest engines ..and it was stolen from my house...now I found a 96 2500 with front end damage for cheap...my question is the body components compatible..quarter panels ..ect...also axels ..thanks

 

the front panels should be the same, i could be wrong, and im 100% sure the rear axles are different but in not sure if the front axles are or not. hope this helps

 

If you want a 1/2 ton, transplant the 96 engine into the 97. If you want a 3/4 ton then swap out the front doghouse off the 97 onto the 96. Just know that front end damage could also mean frame damage. Either way, everything should pretty much be interchangeable between the two with the exception of the brakes, suspension, and rear end as far as I know.