1-ton axle swap advice needed...
 

Hi guys,
I am ready to swap tons under my '84 Caddy Blazer. I found a 14-bolt over the weekend for $75. Now I just need a front. Would a 8-lug dana 44 be ok for now if I can't find a 60? I figure anything would be better than the dual 10-bolts I have now. Overall, have you guys found it to be better to use 8 lug 15" wheels or the stock 16" rims. How cheap can you buy a set of 8 lug steel 15" wheels. I still have another year left on my 35x12.50x15 tires so I'd like to find some wheels if I can. Any other thoughts on swapping tons? Thanks guys.
Sincerely,
Chris:flag:

Tyres international has American Racing and US Wheel rims that are 15x10 and 15x8 that come in 8 lug pattern. Cost is between $37 and $50 I believe. I have 15x10 8 lug rims now, from American Racing paid $43 at a local wheel shop. The problem you will have is caliper clearance. Also I don't know if the 15" rims will clear the drum on the 14 Bolt. I think it depends on back spacing.

Hey steelsoldiers(cool handle by the way)
I have heard and read that the 1 ton rears from 73 up have the same spring perch spacing as 67-72 which is different from the 73 and up 1/2 and 3/4 tons. Would like to hear how this goes with you.
I am myself looking for 1 ton axles for my truck, 70 running gear, sounds like you found a good deal, so if you would let us know how it goes I for one would be thankful to ya.

Hey y'all,
Well it's a 14-bolt FF, but it's actually from a late 70's 3/4 ton truck so the spring pad spacing should be right for my Blazer(36" I believe). That's a good deal on the rear, but I'm afraid I am going to get shafted on the Dana 60 front. They are high priced items now. That's why I have been considering going with a 8 lug Dana 44 for the time being. I am going to step up to 38" tires next year so I just want to be ready for that. Thanks for the info guys. I'll let you know what happens.
Sincerely,
Chris:flag:

you should be fine with a 8 lug dana 44 for now...... hell run it with the 38s to.... if it breaks you planed on replacing it anyway!

Yeah, good point...it's a daily driver so it's not like I beat the crap out of it on a regular basis. I know there are some upgrades available for the 44 like stronger axle shafts and u-joints. They are a heck of a lot cheaper too.
Chris:flag: