what rear for v8 conversion

[eugrides]

what rear can i use on my 53 gmc longbed with a 283/ turbo 350, would like to keep 6 bolt lug pattern heard a s10 4 wheel drive will work, will any other modern ones.work thanks

[HUSSEY]

S10 is typically a 7.625 width which are not super stout. Some had 8.5 which would be a good choice. Anything in an S10 will be 5 lug, though you could convert your front to 5 lug with different hubs. I think a good choice is an Explorer 8.8 in. rear end. They are about 59 in. wide, you can find them with limited slip and disk or drum brakes. These rear end are stout and are plentiful. You should be able to find one at a Pick N Pull. If you look around you can usually find someone who can drill the axles for the 5x4.75 in. pattern at a good price. I called local macine shops and they want $150+ to redrill the axles. I found a guy who owns a Bridgeport mill who specializes in custom rearends who does them for $50.