71 K10 SWB what axles

[nickv6266]

Ok i posted on here about my 71 swb K10 before. Ive decided to just put it back with half ton axles. Someone has put ff14 and 44 front 3/4ton axles under it. Im sourcing parts for this truck now. Im putting Sm465 205 back in it and plan to put 4" lift and 35s. What gear ratio do guys think would be good for these tires and tranny? Not going to be an offroad rig mostly driving around town and occasionally to work which is 15 miles away. Any help deciding which gears would be appreciated. Probably just keep 350 in it. Thanks

[argonaut]

Nick,
It depends on what motor you are going to use. In stock form a big block has more torque at lower rpm, so you can get away with shorter gears in your diff (3:73 for example) with those 35s. But if you have a stockish 350, then you'd probably be better suited with at least some 4.11 gears. You won't like your freeway rpms or your mileage. And the big heavy tires won't be doing you any favors there.
So let us know the details on your motor.

One question I had was why are you taking the 3/4 ton axles out?

[nickv6266]

Originally Posted by argonaut

Nick,
It depends on what motor you are going to use. In stock form a big block has more torque at lower rpm, so you can get away with shorter gears in your diff (3:73 for example) with those 35s. But if you have a stockish 350, then you'd probably be better suited with at least some 4.11 gears. You won't like your freeway rpms or your mileage. And the big heavy tires won't be doing you any favors there.
So let us know the details on your motor.

One question I had was why are you taking the 3/4 ton axles out?

Im not dead set on taking them out I just really like the looks of these trucks with stock rally wheels. I guess if I found some wheels that looked ok with the 8 lug I may keep it like it is. Only 8 lug wheels i like are the 16.5x9.75 but those things are hard to come by.