Hotchkiss guys, need a measurement

[71C10SWB]

My new Hotchkiss 6" drop rear coils are not due in till next week and I am trying to figure out my wheel and tire sizes. Can someone with these coils give me the measurement between the top of the rear axle tube and the bottom of the frame (un-notched) directly above it?
If your frame is notched, give me the dimension to another common location.

I have my rear suspension semi torn apart right now with the coils removed. I'll just set it on stands and do my measuring.

Thanks

[CC69Rat]

Welcome to the forum..

Are you working on the 71 fleetside in the Avatar? Do you know if you have the early or late rear end housing?

[71C10SWB]

Yeah, it's the one in the avatar.
How do I tell a early to a late model rear housing?

[71C10SWB]

btt

I would have to assume that this truck has the late model rear in it. It's a 71 with 5 lugs. I've never heard of a "narrow" early model rear with 5 lugs (unless the axles were changed). This is the original rear.

I really need an answer on this guys if you can help.

[CC69Rat]

If you lay under the truck, measure from backing plate to backing plate. If the rear is a 71+ it will be 57" long at this point.

IF this is the case, with a 6" drop coil. 20x10 with a 5.5" BS. 295/40/20 is what most people are running. I am using a 295/45/20 on a 20x10 but I just like a little more tire sidewall.

295/25.4x.40= 4.645" sidewall x2 + 20 = 29.29" tall tire.
295/25.4x.45 = 5.226" sidewall x2 + 20 = 30.45" tall tire.

It may vary from that slightly depending on brand. Most people use the Toyo Proxes II.

You do know the Hotchkis springs come with adjustment plates, correct? You can run from a 5" to 6" drop, at .25" increments. Depending on how many plates you add or take away.

6.5" drop in the rear is the most you can run (or the most I would suggest) without a notch.

[71C10SWB]

Thanks for the info. I'll keep that in mind when I get to buying my wheels. I'm still a little undecided on that part of the project.
I'm doing some other work back there too right now and wanted to check some clearances and set up angles.

I'm not near the truck right now or I'd go out and measure it. I know it was a late year '71.

Along with length, is there a tube diameter difference?
If someone could still measure that distance for me, I would really appreciate it.

[CC69Rat]

Ok, .. good luck to you. Sorry I couldn't help you.