What do I need to get for a rear end swap?

[Matt300ZXT]

I'm doing a deal for a guys 74 Nova rear end. From what I've read, it's a direct bolt in, even the spring perches are in the same location. Anyhow, what parts do I need to pickup for swapping the rear? Should the old hardware be fine or do I need to pick up new stuff? I've never installed a rear end before so I don't know what's common practice.

[55dude]

get your tape measure out and if the spring perches don't line up the 4x4 shops sell them for under $20 new. 69-74 nova and 67-69 rearends i believe are same width. 75-79 nova and 70-81 camaro are same width. google "rearend width"

[Matt300ZXT]

I'm talking about hardware and small parts, what do I need to get to replace?

[blitz'd]

If the u bolts are rusty I would definatly pick up a set of new ones w/ nuts. Normally its easier to cut off the old ones anyway. Might want to check the u joints also.

[fabguy]

What type of truck? Most of the older trucks used a narrower spring perch, I had checked 4x4 shops around here & they only had ones for wider springs so I got mine from Classic Performance parts. Just a thought

[mr48chev]

Originally Posted by fabguy

What type of truck? Most of the older trucks used a narrower spring perch, I had checked 4x4 shops around here & they only had ones for wider springs so I got mine from Classic Performance parts. Just a thought

He is correct and the Nova axle has spring pads that are completely wrong for the Chev pickup springs.

Make sure that you get the emergency/park brake cables and the connectors plus I'd nab the cable that went to them even though you might not use it or all of it.

Unless you put some mini tubs in it you will have to run wheels with a reverse offset to clear the bed sides. I have that same style rear end under my 48 and have to carry an old chrome reverse wheel as a spare as a standard wheel won't clear the bed sides. Not fun having to jack up the front of the car and put the standard spare wheel and tire on the front an then put the front wheel and tire on the rear so you can make it to the tire store to get the flat fixed.

[raycow]

Shock mounts, unless they come as part of the U-bolt plates.

Ray

[fabguy]

If its a 55-59 here is the part# for a complete conversion kit from CPP: 5559RCK $89.99



or just the spring perches: 5559RAS $19.99



Here is their link
Thought I would try to help you save alot of heartburn later.

[Big Port Jimmy 6]

As I remember you have a 54. The spring pin center line is offset to the front in your springs. If you look at the stock rear end it has pivots that allow it to move with the closed drive line. You need to make some plates to move the pin back. 1/2 plate with a 3/8 Allen bolt screwed in an a hole to put the spring pin in. You will need some new bottom plates since the Nova rear end has wider perches. Jay