The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network - View Single Post

Tony · 03-07-2002, 06:13 PM

I installed a 80 1/2 ton 4x4 6 lug axle in my 51 chevy 6 years ago. The newer axle is only about and inch or so wider than the original axle.Any year 6 lug axle will work more or less.The most common ratios are 3.08- 3.73. The swap requires new spring perches,u-bolts,lower retainer plates and some fidgiting with the parking brake setup and of course a different transmisson to convert to an open driveshaft from the torque tube.You will also have to have a new drive shaft made or I believe an Astro van drive shaft will work .The original bellhousing will accept a Muncie or Saginaw car or 4spd,a T-5 or the granny low 4 spd from 55 -67, car 3 spd 55 and up. good luck.

03-07-2002, 06:13 PM	#3
Tony Registered User Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Ontario New Yak Posts: 843	I installed a 80 1/2 ton 4x4 6 lug axle in my 51 chevy 6 years ago. The newer axle is only about and inch or so wider than the original axle.Any year 6 lug axle will work more or less.The most common ratios are 3.08- 3.73. The swap requires new spring perches,u-bolts,lower retainer plates and some fidgiting with the parking brake setup and of course a different transmisson to convert to an open driveshaft from the torque tube.You will also have to have a new drive shaft made or I believe an Astro van drive shaft will work .The original bellhousing will accept a Muncie or Saginaw car or 4spd,a T-5 or the granny low 4 spd from 55 -67, car 3 spd 55 and up. good luck.