72 k20 axle swap.

[mattwhiteyanks1]

I finally got my old man to sell me his 72 3/4 ton k20. I'm looking into swapping the rear end to a late model rear end. Reasons being, using leaf springs and getting rid of the coil springs, having disc breaks in the rear, locking differential, and I'll probably add ladder racks to it. Pros? Cons? Suggestions?

[Captainfab]

You likely haven't had any replies since you posted this in the '60-'66 section of the forum.

A K20 would have come from the factory with leaf springs. A C20 would have had trailing arms and coils. In a 2wd application the trailing arms and coils are IMO superior to leaf springs. Converting the existing differential to a locker and discs will depend on the particular differential under the truck. If it is the Eaton HO52/72, forget it. If it is a Dana 60, there is much aftermarket support for those. If you can find a later model differential with a posi and disc brakes it will be a bit wider than the current differential. You can always change the posi for a locker.

If you are wanting to add ladder racks, it sounds like this is a work truck?

[mattwhiteyanks1]

That was supposed to say ladder "bars". Not racks. I probably sound like a complete moron now as I've written that, posted in the wrong section and now, it seems this truck might actually be a 1/2 ton. I figured it was a 3/4 ton because of the stance, and the marker lights. As well as most of my family referred to it as a 3/4 ton truck. Now, that I've got it, I see 6 lug wheels. All 6 lugs were 1/2 ton right? I'm gonna see if it has the 14 bolt I was expecting or if it's a 1/2 ton set up,

[aerotruk63]

It should be a 12 bolt.
Having a 72 in this section is just expanding our horizons. We pilfer parts from your years so why not come and ask questions on this side. Kinda like the kid asking Dad for advise.
WELCOME

[Captainfab]

Yes that is a '72 K10.

I do make a couple of 6 lug rear disc conversion brackets that will work just fine on that 12 bolt, if you are really wanting 4 wheel disc brakes.

There's really no need for any ladder bars unless you plane to greatly increase the power output of the engine and tire size. Then at that point all you need is one bar towards the center with a shackle to a crossmember. That design is very common in the offroad world.

[mattwhiteyanks1]

After actually spending some time looking at it, it's definitely a 1/2 ton. Factory cablights and tow hooks along with several other cool options. What brake systems do your brackets use? I'd like to do bigger brakes all around. Considering hydroboost as well. It's harder to find bigger brakes for the 4x4s.

[Captainfab]

I used to make brackets for 13" 6 lug rotors, but I quit making those. Here are the for sale threads for the 6 lug rear disc brackets that I make.

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=494411

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=637489

I can provide you with the brackets for hydroboost as well.

Originally Posted by mattwhiteyanks1

After actually spending some time looking at it, it's definitely a 1/2 ton. Factory cablights and tow hooks along with several other cool options. What brake systems do your brackets use? I'd like to do bigger brakes all around. Considering hydroboost as well. It's harder to find bigger brakes for the 4x4s.