Can a 71 rear end fit on a 69?

[treveiger]

I know this is probably a dumb question but i know at least on here ill get the right answer. I want to convert my truck to 5 lug next summer and ive heard things about the rearends being different sizes so my question is will the 71 rear end fit on my 69 or will i have to look for a different one? I got the 71 for free so im kinda hoping it does lol.

[Tx Firefighter]

Yes, it's a bolt in deal. The overall width is 1.5 inches wider but it's nothing to worry about really. Most folks never notice the added width.

You can swap the front end to get 5 lug disc brakes too. It's also 1.5 inches wider.

[capev86]

i'd go for it. the rear track is still narrower than the front so the wider you can get it the better it will look.

[treveiger]

Thank you guys very much!!! Thats why i love this site. The PO put disks in the front but im going to swap the whole front out to a 73-87 front end because thats not hard at all from what im seeing. Another quick question, will i need different motor mounts or anything like that with the new front end swap?

[lolife99]

There is no need to swap the crossmember itself.

Just take everything from the a-arms out.
What's wrong with the disc brakes that are on it now?

[treveiger]

Originally Posted by lolife99

There is no need to swap the crossmember itself.

Just take everything from the a-arms out.
What's wrong with the disc brakes that are on it now?

Why not swap it? Nothing except there 8 lug and i figure the switching everything over would be easiest.

[lolife99]

Crossmembers are basically the same.
No need to mess with the engine mounts, support the engine,... or have to remove and replace all those bolts.
(harder to get to with the engine in place)

Just seems silly to me.
I would rather remove all the components,... and clean and paint each piece,... and then replace.

Make sure and post pics of your progress.

[Longhorn Man]

if the engine is going to be out, and the sheet metal is off, then the crossmember swap is stupid simple.
If your 1/2 ton parts are all in good shape, no need for new ball joints and other pieces, then I'd do the cross member even if the engine is still in (make sure you have a good hoist).

[hugger6933]

The only dumb question is the one that goes unasked. That is how some learn, by asking and having questions answered. Jim

[treveiger]

The engine and tranny are both coming out before i do the swap. I thought i heard somewhere that with the newer front crossmember is easier to take the oil pan off? Whats the difference between the two crossmembers does anybody have any pics? Thanks for all the good info this might be easier than i thought!
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