62 c/10 axle swap

[OldChevy61]

The 62 I just got has the 10 bolt rear end with 6 lug. Is there a newer model 5 lug axle that will fit that rear end . Seems like it would be much easier than having to make a different housing fit the truck. Has anybody done this?

[LVPhotos]

I used a 1970. About inch wider. You will have to weld on new perches no matter what.

[53Sparky]

Originally Posted by LVPhotos

I used a 1970. About inch wider. You will have to weld on new perches no matter what.

CaptainFab makes and sells the spring perches you would need. And seemingly an infinite knowledge of our 60-66 trucks. If you have any questions, ask him.

[OldChevy61]

I'm talking about just sliding the axels out of the housing and new axels in,not doing a complete rear swap.

[slepysal]

If its the original 62 rear end there are no direct replacement axles.
You might be able to get your axles re welded.

[frankslagoon]

Originally Posted by slepysal

If its the original 62 rear end there are no direct replacement axles.
You might be able to get your axles re welded.

if your axles aren't wore out at the bearing surface. then like sleepysal said. have them welded up and redrilled. I think all the 5 lug axles are longer and the spline is different.

[OldChevy61]

Thanks Guys. Just trying to gather as much info as possible to help decide which way to go with this truck once I get started. One part of me wants to do a lot of upgrades. The other says go all original.lot of $$$$$ to modernize so to speak. Will be a frame off either way, so still a lot of $$$ .

[Captainfab]

There are no 5 lug axles available for the '62 and earlier Eaton HO32. In fact there are not much available in the way of parts for those. Aside from the basic bearings and seals from your local auto parts store, there is only 1 gear set available. That would be 3.38 gears. Unless you are lucky enough to already have those gears, your differential likely has 3.90 gears, which are a little low for comfortable highway driving. One option there is an OD trans. To get your 5 lug axles, you will have to plug and redrill the original axles. As already mentioned, I would only do that as long as the axle bearing surface is in excellent condition.

The '63 to early '70 12 bolts are the same width as your Eaton HO32 but are available in 6 lug only. But 5 lug conversion axles are available. The '71-'82 12 bolts are 1.5" wider and are available in 5 lug. There is plenty of aftermarket parts support for the truck 12 bolt. Any differential you would swap into your truck will need the trailing arm mounts moved or added as well as the panhard bar mount.

[OldChevy61]

Thank you sir.