spindle and center link?

[Leftlane]

Hello all,
I just read 50 or so threads using "spindle" in the search bar; but didn't really find the answer Sooo...

I'm working on a '71 C10 SWB with power steering.
Wanting to drop the truck around 4.5 front and 6 rear.

I already own a set of 1973+ 2.5" drop spindles and 2" springs.
It seems as though the ball joints and outer tie rods are the same for both years, so I should be able to physicaly mount the newer spindles onto the arms.
Does my '72 center link pose any alignment problems using the newer spindle?
Can I use the 73-87 2" drop springs in my '71 without issue?

Thanks,
Keith

[hugger6933]

I thought the 71-72 uses a differernt balljoint and tie rod than the 73 up. I may be wrong [happens all the time] check with the parts store to be sure.

[Tmwoodall]

Originally Posted by hugger6933

I thought the 71-72 uses a differernt balljoint and tie rod than the 73 up. I may be wrong [happens all the time] check with the parts store to be sure.

Not sure but I believe hugger is correct. I also seem to recall 73+ having some slight advantage over previous years bjs.
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[Tx Firefighter]

73 and up uses different tie rod end and upper ball joint. Lower ball joint is the same though.

I'd buy a pair of upper ball joints from the parts store and the entire 73-87 steering linkage from a junkyard. Just get the whole deal from outer tie rod end through the other outer tie rod end, including center link. You can reuse your existing pitman arm and idler arm.

[Leftlane]

Hey, Thanks Guys,

My mistake.
I just went to Rockauto.com and checked parts differences.

upper BJ = different ('71=K6124 / '73=K6136)
lower BJ = same (K6117)
tie rod ends and sleeves = same (409R/ES2004S/409L)

So, swap out the upper BJ and the spindle will physicaly mount to either year. Right?

What I was really looking at were the springs and center link.

The stock spring specs are VERY similar.
The '73 spring is less than 1/2" taller and only marginaly stiffer, and both have the same installed height.

1973 C10 350 V8
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851075 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=3.68" Wire Diameter=.781" Free Height=13.64" Load height=10"
1971 C10 350 V8
RAYBESTOS Part # 5851011 Professional Grade; Sold in Pairs -- Inside Diameter=3.68" Wire Diameter=.75" Free Height=13.18" Load height=10"

Is it reasonable to assume the 2" lowered spring to be AS similar?
Will I really notice the difference?

Also, if the Pitman, Idler, and outer TRE are the same; will my existing 1971 P/S center link work OK?
(I couldnt find any information on the '71 center as it appears to be obsolete)

Point is here; I'm trying to work with that which I already own, if it's possible.
Thanks again,

Keith

[Daves70]

I used the 73-87 spindle before. You need the ball joints and outer tierod ends for a 73-87 truck.You need an adapter sleeve to mate the tie rods.You also use your existing outer tie rod as your inner. Search disk brake conversion for more info.Good luck.

[Daves70]

Sorry reread your post I saw yours is a 71. Your tierods should be good as is. Not sure about springs though.