65 to 72 Disc Brake Conversion

[6T5C10]

I need some advice and/or knowledge. I have a 65 C-10 that I will be converting to power disc brakes. A friend gave me some 72 spindles with the calipers. I am replacing all of my front end pieces with 72 parts. I can't find a 72 centerlink. How can I connect the tie rods (72) to my 65 centerlink? Can I use a 65 inner rod with a 72 outer? If so, how do I connect them? I know I am not the only one that has run into this.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by 6T5C10

I need some advice and/or knowledge. I have a 65 C-10 that I will be converting to power disc brakes. A friend gave me some 72 spindles with the calipers. I am replacing all of my front end pieces with 72 parts. I can't find a 72 centerlink. How can I connect the tie rods (72) to my 65 centerlink? Can I use a 65 inner rod with a 72 outer? If so, how do I connect them? I know I am not the only one that has run into this.

POL & others make tie rod adapter sleeves that allow the different size threads encountered with disc brake swaps. Old school was using parts from different years for the right combo but the adapter sleeves are easier: https://www.performanceonline.com/19...ONVERSIONS-Pr/

[6T5C10]

Thank you. I was hoping for an easy solution. So now I can use 65 inner rods and 72 outers, correct?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by 6T5C10

Thank you. I was hoping for an easy solution. So now I can use 65 inner rods and 72 outers, correct?

I don't recall the thread sizes on each but believe the adapters mate the 5/8" thread on drum equipped trucks to disc brake size 11/16" thread.

I did the disc swap on my 67/68 years ago. I believe it was by using the drum brake outers as inners & using 71-71 disc outers for compatibility @ the disc spindle. The adapters might be for the drum outers as inners & then 73-up outers. I did the swap around 1990 so forgive my fuzziness on the details.

Another good read/source from board member lolife99:
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=444823

[6T5C10]

I just ordered them. The web page said to use the drum brake outers as inners and the disc brake spindle outers, like you said. I appreciate the information.

[Slammed96]

Originally Posted by 6T5C10

I just ordered them. The web page said to use the drum brake outers as inners and the disc brake spindle outers, like you said. I appreciate the information.

That's exactly what I did for my swap. Works like a charm!

[Braunschweiger]

I'm in the process of building it right now

[6T5C10]

I am also in need of spindle nuts and washers for this build. Does anyone know what size I need for 71-72 spindles? Does anyone have any they will part with?

[SCOTI]

I would imagine you can get them from local auto parts type places or mail-order (Summit) w/o too much fuss.

[6T5C10]

I would think so too but so far no luck for that year. I don't even know what size it takes.

[Braunschweiger]

I got mine from RockAuto from the '81 C10, the nut is the same as from my '62/63. Maybe also suitable for you?

[lolife99]

Originally Posted by 6T5C10

I am also in need of spindle nuts and washers for this build. Does anyone know what size I need for 71-72 spindles? Does anyone have any they will part with?

I’m pretty sure I’ve used the drum brake spindle nut on a disc brake spindle.
Did you try that?

[6T5C10]

Thanks everyone. I did some more research and it looks like a 3/4 20 is the size that fits. I ordered some Dormans from Amazon.