60-66 4x4's
 

I've been thinking that once I finish my turbo/4.8L setup in my 65 2 wheel drive that maybe buying a 65 4x4 Suburban is something I should have.

What I want to know is how strong are the front and rear ends in the Suburbans and were the early ones also available in 3/4 ton like the trucks? If I were to do another LS type swap in it and added a 4L80E should I keep the stock transfer case or upgrade to something newer?

I have no intention of doing any serious off-roading but for one of those backroad trips to a lake or driving in the snow when I need it. I'll just run the biggest tires that fit without mods, so something in a 31"?

Re: 60-66 4x4's
 

D44's should be fine for what you describe, but you should consider upgrading to an open knuckle version if the burb has a closed knuckle. if you want disks up front i think they were standard equip at about 1970 or 71

Re: 60-66 4x4's
 

Something in the 31" to 33" range should fit a stock k10 or k20 sub.

The stock transfer case will be a divorced t221. They are a strong unit, if maintained correctly. The gears in them are cut pretty straight so they tend to have more gear whine than more modern units.

As was said stock axles are fine and even power drums would be fine if you aren't towing a heavy load or driving fast on the open road.