Simple Drop Spindle Question

[TimE]

What's the difference between a drop spindle that says it fits 71-72 versus one that says it fits 73-87???

Background info...My '64 has spindles/rotors off of a 77 c10 and I used the tie rod sleeve/adapter from CPP to attach the steering to the spindle and used the 73-up ball joints. Which type of spindle do I need to focus on?

The reason for the question is I found a set of spindles for a decent price but they state they are for a 71-72 C10.

[jlaird]

ball joint size.

[hotrodhomi]

I thought the tie rod ends were different. I'm pretty sure you can make either one work though.

[TimE]

So since I am using 73-up ball joints and tie rod ends I need to go with a 73-up spindle?

[hotrodhomi]

Originally Posted by TimE

So since I am using 73-up ball joints and tie rod ends I need to go with a 73-up spindle?

unless you change the mentioned parts.

[gringoloco]

You will have to change the upper ball joints and outer tie-rods. The lower ball joints are the same. The outer tie-rods will thread into your current adjusters and the upper ball joints will bolt in place of your current ones. If you already have discs, all the brake hardware will swap over(assuming 1.25" thick rotors).

[TimE]

Thanks for the details Gringo! I do have the 1.25 rotors on there already with 3" drop springs. I am going to do bags and I want to do spindles at the same time to get it as low as I can without MAJOR issues(for now).

[RunninLo]

TimE,

Unless you're getting a steal I'd try to go with 73+. Certain vendors offer the 73+ in a 3" drop but the most I've found for 71-72 is 2.5"

I originally went with 72 parts for my 72 but now have to change out my spindles,TRE's and upper BJ's despite miy current set-up having 0 miles because I want to tuck big rims and need that extra .5" at the spindle.

IMO you'd be better off with 73+ than getting a discount on spindles and having to spend to convert for them to fit only to get in my shoes and want that extra drop.

Josh

[TimE]

Thanks for the input Josh. I am going to wait and get a set for 73-up. My front suspension has very little miles on it too, so it would be silly to buy the "wrong" parts for my setup. I am curious though, are the 3" spindles worth the extra .5"? It won't cause any issues with alignment, etc.? I also assume that 15" wheels would be out?

[gringoloco]

15s will work with them, but you don't want more than about 3.5" backspacing, which sticks them out pretty far depending on wheel width...

[RunninLo]

Originally Posted by TimE

Thanks for the input Josh. I am going to wait and get a set for 73-up. My front suspension has very little miles on it too, so it would be silly to buy the "wrong" parts for my setup. I am curious though, are the 3" spindles worth the extra .5"? It won't cause any issues with alignment, etc.? I also assume that 15" wheels would be out?

I'm trying to keep my frame planted while upgrading to a 22-24" rim. my 20's are more than fine with my current set up because I have TINY rubber on them but will gain overall outside diameter in the plus sizing unless someone makes a 22 or 24" tire with a 27" diameter.

If you're not sweating layin frame then it's not too big a deal. My philosophy is it's easier to change height with different cups/ bag spacers and have the ability to go low than have to swap spindles for that much needed .5"
Wish I had that thought a few years ago. I'll be damned if I'll even consider altering my DM or ART arms though so if I want it bad enough I'll swap spindles.

Josh

[hotrodhomi]

I heard that most 3" spindles are really 2.5". Any truth to that? I bought 3" djm spindles, but I didn't really compare them when I put them in.