12 bolt 6 lug

[Scottsbowtie]

Hey all, I have a 71 GMC that is a 2wd long box 3/4 ton. I'm turning it into a 2wd short box. I have a short frame as well as a short bed from another truck. I picked up a 12 bolt rear axle that is 6 lug, and has trailing arm brackets, so I know it came from a 2wd truck. I'm looking for some help on how to change to rear disc with an e-brake without spending a G. Anybody done a swap from something newer? Any ideas about rear suspension? Coils from something newer? Thanks in advance!

[Mike C]

There are all sorts of kits out there in the $500 range, but you are nuts to go with the 6 lug setup IMO. Most housings are the narrower pre 1970 and when you do the front you would have to do a 6 lug 1/2 ton conversion which is more expensive than the 5. And then you are stuck with the minimal choices in wheels.

Best bet is to find a donor 71-72 1/2 ton truck and use all the parts. Personally, I'd skip the rear disc conversion until later in the build.

[Scottsbowtie]

Ok, there are many wheel options for the 6 lug pattern, but I found a donor housing with some good 5 lug axles since almost all C10's are 5 on 5. I was all excited until I found out the hard way that they are about 1" longer. Bummer. Thanks Mike.

[James the III]

I'd wait and get the 5 lug like they said..
but, if you come across a b-body cop car or taxi.and wagons 92 up with rear disc.. on a junkyard crawl ,they are 5 on 5.. and people have video how to's on how to use them.. on 10 bolts and 12 bolt rears..

[72freak]

Originally Posted by Scottsbowtie

Ok, there are many wheel options for the 6 lug pattern,. Thanks Mike.

........NO, NO there isn't compared to 5 lug.

I just converted my 1972 C2500 to 5 lug AND a 1962 6 lug truck to 5 lug at the same time.

Suburban:
Early classic 3/4 to 1/2 front spindles. $350
72-87 needed front brake components $150
Complete used ear axle. $250
DONE!

1962 C10:
Complete front clip from a square body donor. FREE
Steering stuff. $35
Replacement rear axle...$250.
Misc....$100
Done

There are rear disc kits out there all day long for under $500 but I would stick with the stock drums as there is minimal gain unless you are going to be racing it.

These swaps are so easy and relatively cheap and are made SO difficult by many. Really the only thing I left off was tie rod ends and ball joints. I didnt need either but replaced on both for good measure.