Front suspension swap

[Wander]

Here is the thing, just bought a 63 GMC suburban and want to change to the 87 style front suspension, so far so good.
But i have some 17'' 6 lug wheels i like to keep.
Like to mount dropped spindles, lower coils and the 6 lug disc's, except for the spindles and coils i like to use oem parts , any toughts on this of witch parts to use ?
The next question is witch rear axle to use, 6 lug and the correct wide.

Any help appriciated.
As living in the Netherlands i have to figure every thing out before go parts hunting.

Can i put pictures in here direct from my desktop or first create a photobucket or something ?

Wander

[Clyde65]

You need to look at ECE for a 6 lug disc upgrade and not the 87 front suspension.

[Captainfab]

There are a couple ways to get 6 lug disc brakes. One of the simplest would be to just purchase '73-'87 droped spindles and the springs of youe choice along with the aftermarket 6 lug rotors. Then you just change your balljoints to the '73-'87 balljoints. If you can find the parts, I would suggest changing the entire steering linkage to the '73-'87 components. This will attach to the spindles without any special adapters. However to install that newer steering linkage, you will have to drill holes for the newer idler arm. Are you converting to power steering as well? The main drawback to this is that you are locked in to using the aftermarket rotors. You can't just go down to an auto parts store and get a new one if need be.

There is another way, but there have been a couple guys report camber issues. I have not heard back on whether or not they have gotten the issue resolved. Anyway, here is a description of what is needed in this thread in post #16.

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=367260

This version uses all OEM parts that can be sourced at most auto parts stores.

[Wander]

Thank you Captianfab

This was the info i was looking for.
My Suburban is still in the states so my plan was to take a complete K member from a ..... with power steering, brakes and al related parts and put it in the back of the car when it ships.
Nicest thing will be a hydraboost,HD disc's and callipers, dropped spindles and coils and then up to the rear end.
Car has a V6 manual trans but it is going to get a 700r4/200r4 and mayby a V8 , never drove a GMC 6.
I will check the link when back from work ( 9 hour time difference)
I get back to you , thanks a lot.

Wander

[Wander]

Let me see if i got this straight.


I think the best way to go is the 5x5 lug swap, because i also want to change the rear axle.

So what i need is a >87 Suburban or 1/2 ton truck to get the cross member and rear axle from and buy some dropped spindles for this respective year and this makes the most easy way to convert to modern bushings,power steer, power disc brake and swaybar.

This is also standard 12'' and 1,1/4 rotor ?

Thanks again
Getting wiser bit by bit

[Captainfab]

Yes that is correct. You will want a front suspension, complete steering assembly, and brake master (possibly booster), proportioning valve and rear differential from a '73-'87 C10 pickup or Suburban. There was a light duty brake option with 1" thick rotors. I would avoid those if possible. Your friend might also grab the power steering pump, brackets and hoses if they are available.

Let me know if you need a steering box adapter plate, tube and flange or brake booster/hydroboost mounting brackets