Converting to six lugs?

[nico]

Has anyone ever checked into converting a C10 to the now-more common six lug wheel pattern?

I know that conversion hubs are made for some applications (circle track from 5x4 3/4 to 5x5), but don't know about our trucks...

Would it be possible to swap the axles and drums for 4x4 pieces?

It seems that good deals are always popping up for six-hole wheels, but five hole options are getting slimmer and slimmer.

[Pyrotechnic]

The rear end should be easy. Just get a 4x4 rear end. I'm not sure if you can put 4x4 axles in a 2WD rear. I'm thinking you can but maybe someone else will confirm.

[Bad Karma]

I have a Superior Axle catalog that shows the '70-'81 4WD 12-bolt axleshaft being 1/16" shorter than the '70-'81 2WD 12-bolt axleshaft. Seems like it would work... 4WD axles around here are easy to find, and pretty cheap (or free!).

I have a buddy who is using a 12-bolt 4WD version for mock-up on a project. I'll check it with a 2WD shaft next time he takes it apart.

[manimal]

You can use a 4x4 rear axle and then order the 6 lug front rotors from ECE or BROTHERS as they use the 73-up spindle. I have been constipating this on my crew.
-Lance

[Richard D]

Just wondering, is the late-model six lug pattern the same as the old pattern, and are they or are they not hub-concentric? If so, wheels from a new truck would fit a drum brake truck, right?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by Richard D

Just wondering, is the late-model six lug pattern the same as the old pattern, and are they or are they not hub-concentric? If so, wheels from a new truck would fit a drum brake truck, right?

No. The lug dimensions will work but it's the hub dimension of the drum that interferes w/the wheels hub/pilot hole (the drum hub is bigger than the late model wheels hub).