60-66 4x4 QUESTIONS

[BTCHN 1963]

I just aquired a 1963 3/4 ton long box 4x4 and I have a couple of questions.

1. I want to update the suspension to newer 73-87 3/4 or 1 ton disk, disk. The rear end has been switched to a 14 bolt full floater but it still has the 3/4 ton dana 44 front with drum brakes. Do you guys just change the nuckles with a newer 3/4 ton dana 44 or is there a doner that has the same perch width. I measured the purch width last night and compared it with my 74 blazer and it is about 3/4 of an inch narrower, that is why I was asking if you guys just change the knuckles. Any suggestions would be great.

2. My other questions is about the transfer case. Do you guys keep the T221 or do you replace it with something else? If I remember correctly ford and dodge made a divorced NP205. I have both NP203 and 205 married transmissions.

My plans for the truck is to make a tow rig for my wifes horse business with ocasional light off road. I will strech the frame and make it a crew cab long bed. For motor and transmission I am going wtih a 350 tbi set up and 700r4 transmission.

[1969K10]

Generally, you'd just swap axles w/ a disk one, but from 67/68 on, they're all the same axle width spacing. I think it'd be real expensive to convert one.

As far as the 221 goes, they are difficult and expensive to find parts for. that being said, i liked mine much more than my 205.

['63GENIII]

The D60 that I have is out of a 73 Dodge (makes having an e-brake a little challenging) and the D44 front is out of a 72 Chevy. I don't think swaping the knuckles is an option and the swap is just cheaper. The T221 is a good t-case but a little loud and a little more maintenance than a 205 (probably not quite as strong too), but it's held up fine behind the 396. I pick up a Vortec 454 tomorrow and when that goes in, the 221 gets swapped for a divorced np201 with twin sticks and parking brake on the t case Many of the later model parts fit quite easily as there were not alot of changes to stuff like axle width and engine mounting so swapping can be fairly easy. I love my '63! Enjoy!

[LeftCoast32]

I have a 1966 K10 that I am updating and converting all the frame hangers to the 1971-1972 Blazer/Truck. I started a thread on the frame dimensions and there is alot of great information and pictures.

I am installing the 1 1/4 Ton D60 Front and 14 Bolt Rear both with Disc Brakes and 4.56 Gears.

I still have the original 283, SM420 and T221. I plan to eventually swap the Divorced T221 for a Divorced NP205. The only problem with getting rid of the T221 is that it performs perfectly and I have always said "If it aint broke dont fix it". GM used the T221 all the way up to 2.5 tons so it is a tough unit. They are just a little loud and tend to leak at the rear output seals.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=381963

['63GENIII]

"If it aint broke dont fix it". GM used the T221 all the way up to 2.5 tons so it is a tough unit. They are just a little loud and tend to leak at the rear output seals.



Agreed! Mine's been abused for the 45+ years. Just loud and leaking!

[66Gilbert]

I know this is not a 1963, but is this what you had in mind?

[NEVERENOUGH]

Originally Posted by 66Gilbert

I know this is not a 1963, but is this what you had in mind?

What are the specs on this truck. I am tossing the idea around of starting the rebuild on my 66. I understand that this is a photoshop but was just wondering on tire size and lift size if possible.

[BTCHN 1963]

Thanks guys for the great information! Based on what you guys said, I will run the t221 until it brakes.

Neverenough, that is exactly what I was planning on building. My wife was asking this weekend if it could be a flat bed instead of a conventional bed so I may go that route. Thanks for all your help!
Rob