front axle 4x4 help needed

[doug70]

I an updating my 71 k20 and need to make a swap of the front axle to drivers side drop. Have never atempted this any suggestions? What do I need to look for to keep all the steering in tact?

I have the nv4500 and transfer case from a 95 k3500 and think it might be easier to swap front axles rather than make the 71's np205 fit the nv4500.

Thanks,

Doug

[kwmech]

Money wise it will be cheaper to find a later model round pattern 205 t-case, OR a 241 from a blazer/ suburban (1989 will be the one to look for)

[b454rat]

Easy, find a 78/79 Ford 3/4 ton with a Dana 44. It will bolt in, steering will bolt on, sway bars will be different, if you even have one. Not all Ford's did either. Other than that, it's simple stuff, brake lines, shock mounts, maybe a conversion joint.

Another option if you can't find a 78/79s style, look for the same year truck EXTENDED CAB 1/2 TON ONLY!!!! These are essentially a 3/4 ton axle, just has 5 lugs. Easily converted to 8 lug.

Another option but will take a little work. Find a 1/2 77 or older, that has the coil spring setup. The "Cs" or wedges are welded on, and can be ground down to a bare tube. Weld some perches on and go. Some were drum brakes, but have open knuckle, so swapping to discs is easy. You could actually use everything from the knuckles out on your current axle to retain discs and bolt pattern.

[msgross]

advance adapters make a conversion to fit your 205 to the nv4500... Then you don't have to buy new brakes, axels etc,,,