1/2T 4X4 to 3/4T 4x4

[patriot9879]

Hi all,

I am trying to put together a list of things that I would like to do to my 71 K10 along with the required body, interior and drive train work. The current suspension is getting a little saggy and will need to be replaced at some point. I had planned to put a lift in it complete with new springs, but lately I have been wondering about upgrading to 3/4T suspension for added capacity. Can anyone tell me what the differences are between the two versions and what should be done to convert to 3/4T (besides the drive train changes).

Thanks
--Parker

[special-K]

Lift kit springs aren't any different for 1/2 and 3/4t trucks. You can get HD versions from some companies vs the softer flexy ones offered these days. It's all a direct swap from 1/2t to 3/4t,except the rear u-joint in the rear drive shaft which needs to be a conversion u-joint. The 3/4t axle takes a larger u-joint. The only other thing is the driveshaft. The larger rear axle would require a shorter shaft. But...when I lifted my '85 Jimmy 4" and converted to the 9.5" 14-bolt rear (semi-floating 3/4t) the driveshaft ended up just right since lifting makes the driveshaft extend,they cancelled each other out. If your swap does require the driveshaft to be shortened,use the 3/4t one so you can just use the normal 3/4t u-joint.