6lug to 5 lug axles

[1971c10La]

Ok i have a 1970 gmc with 6lug and a 1971 chevy with 5 lug (parts truck) will the 5 lug axle fit in the 6 lug rearend or can i take the whole rearend out the chevy and place under gmc both have be took apart and cleaned thanks for any help

[bubbasimms]

I'm not the authority and you should measure but if they are both 12 bolts then the 70 6 lug is likely more narrow than the 5 lug. If they are both the same suspension set up, coils and trailing arms, then the whole 12 bolts should interchange, but not just the axles. The axles will be different lengths. You could bolt in the complete 5 lug 12 bolt or buy conversion 5 lug axles for the 6 lug 12 bolt. I got the conversion axles on amazon for 150 bucks If i remember right.

[Mike C]

Maybe.... GMC were typically leaf. Chevy was typically coil. But both can be found either way.

1970 was a transition year. Most of the 6 lug rears were the same width as the 71-72 5 lug housings. But not all...

So if your 70 is the wider housing you can swap axles. If they are both coil or both leaf then you can swap the whole assembly.

[1971c10La]

Yes there both coil spring set ups how do i tell if i have the wide houseing

[bubbasimms]

Measure them from backing plate to backing plate. If they are the same the axles will swap.

[Mike C]

Originally Posted by bubbasimms

Measure them from backing plate to backing plate. If they are the same the axles will swap.

Like he said. Tape measure and a buddy makes it easier.