63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

Hi Folks,

Does anyone know if there are years of front open-knuckle D44s on Chevrolet or GMC trucks that will swap with my current closed-knuckle on my 63 GMC 3/4T 4x4 without cutting/welding etc.? Is there a straight bolt-on swap out there? If so, what years/models might they be? Thanks!!

Re: 63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

I picked mine up from a '72 3/4 ton. It was an easy swap even though I went from 1/2 ton to 3/4 ton. I think I remember brake lines being an issue.

Re: 63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

You can use a axle up to 1987 and it will bolt in. When you go from drum to disc brakes that is the big change as ie brake lines,master cylinder, ect.

Re: 63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

Thanks guys. Up to '87: Good to know! I'm prepared for all the mods to switch to discs...I don't have the parts yet, but I know what's in store. Thanks again.

Re: 63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

axle is a bolt in swap, brake lines are definitly different and the steering will be a lot different. we used a 72 p-s box on my nephew's 63. had to modify the column and space the box away from the frame. not a big problem but took a little time to get everything right. he's put well over 100K on that truck since we built it several years ago.

Re: 63 GMC Closed Knuckle D44F Swap to open knuckle?
 

Thanks Jerry. Fortune has smiled on me: the truck already has later model power steering! I'm doing a complete (mostly) rebuild, so the brake lines should be no problem. 100K miles on your rebuild? That's great...I hope to do the same. Thanks again.