Rear end swap

[hotrod9454]

I have a 72' step side with a leaf spring rear end and would like to convert over to coil spring. Does anyone know how to do this properly, got any pictures or links to go to help me out? What has to be added or removed, cross member for trailing arms, brake lines, etc.

Bill

[gale]

I'm just now thinking of parting out my '67 stepped LWB and the trailing arms are in great shape.

I need to focus on my '54 3100.

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by hotrod9454

I have a 72' step side with a leaf spring rear end and would like to convert over to coil spring. Does anyone know how to do this properly, got any pictures or links to go to help me out? What has to be added or removed, cross member for trailing arms, brake lines, etc.

Bill

Hi Bill,

You would have to get a trailing arm center crossmember, trailing arms, coil springs, track bar, and track bar frame bracket. The spring perches are different so you would have to cut your perches off and weld on the coil spring perches or swap rear axles. I'm probably missing something but some of the other guys will save me if I am.....

Oh yes, I think the small crossmember behind the rear axle is different too.

LockDoc

[hotrod9454]

Lock Doc, Thanks for the info. I found a good set up in a wrecking yard with all the parts ( I think) to do the swap.

Should I be able to use my old brake lines. I would be changing the whole rear axle at the same time.

[michael bustamante]

Shock mounts are different too arent they? ( uppers )

[sierragrande71]

Not to hijack hotrod9454's thread but I see that your from Elk Grove, I use to live and work there for 8 yrs. anyways I'm also looking for some info as to how to do this on my 2wd converted blazer.

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by hotrod9454

Lock Doc, Thanks for the info. I found a good set up in a wrecking yard with all the parts ( I think) to do the swap.

Should I be able to use my old brake lines. I would be changing the whole rear axle at the same time.

If you use your old brakes, you can use your old brake-lines for sure and still likely if you don't. You could actually remove the backing plates and all and never break open a brake line or not remove a brake spring just transfer them over to the new rear-end just hang them with coat-hangers.

I expect the lines would fit if it's a 71-72 5 lug rear end.

[mechanicalman]

Originally Posted by michael bustamante

Shock mounts are different too arent they? ( uppers )

Good idea to check that one! Something else to chisel off that old frame after hands are numb chiseling off that cross-member! LOL been there, done that.

[hotrod9454]

Thanks for all the help guys, but I think I will just go with 5" lowering leafs, sounds much easier and cheaper.

Bill

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by hotrod9454

Thanks for all the help guys, but I think I will just go with 5" lowering leafs, sounds much easier and cheaper.

Bill

Wise choice as far as I'm concerned...

LockDoc