Posted by T.L. (IP: 206.133.171.38) on August 05, 1999 at 02:28:48:
In Reply to: Re: I don't think they are the same axels....... posted by TParker on August 03, 1999 at 19:34:51:
: You are right the axle houseings are smaller on the 4lug but the axles are the same size you just have to have the bearings for the 4lugs pressed on the 5lug axles.
: : I can't remember why, but I think someone said that the 4-lug and 5-lug axels are not a dirrect swap. I believe that the 5-lug is "thicker" where the bearing is or something. Anybody have a clue about this one?
: :
: : --------------------------------------------------
: : : 1st if your 4 lug differential is an 8" you can swap just the axle's, they are the same (28spline) just different # of lugs. you will need the drums and baking plate with all of the shoes and stuff. the lines will unhook from the 4lug set up and hook right up to the 5lug set up. If you don't have an 8" you will need to take the whole thing. the origonal lines and emergency calble will hook up to the 8". you can use the origonal springs but I recomend getting new springs. you should also change the universal joint while you have it apart. If you get lucky and only have to change the axles I would also have new bearings pressed on, local machine shop should be able to do this. Good luck and I hope this helps.