78 chevy rear end on a 66 C10

[degree01]

Can someone tell if it's possible to remove my original 6lug rear end on my 66 Chevy C10 and replace with a 5 lug 78 Chevy truck rer end or will it be too much hassle? I’m wondering if I could just take one off and replace with the other or am I Biting more then I can chew?

Thank you all in advance for your replies.

[47guy]

http://www.classicperform.com/6092chevtrk.htm scroll down to Rear End Conversion Kits

[SCOTI]

The 78 rear is wider (about .750" each side) vs. a 66 housing; be aware it can impact the fit related to the bedsides if the truck is lowered.

The 78 also has leafs. If your truck has coils, you'll need the swap saddles onto the housing for the truck arms. If your truck has leafs already, you need to measure the distance between the center-line of the spring perches. If they're the same from both housings, you can just swap it. If not, you'll need to relocate the perches.

[Captainfab]

When converting to the later model 12 bolt, you will need to accomodate the panhard bar also. This would be easiest by locating the bracket and panhard bar from a '63 or '64 differential since it welds to the passenger side axle tube. You could also fabricate your own of that same style. I believe there is also an aftermarket kit (CPP?) for lowered trucks that mounts the panhard bar to bracket bolted to the passenger side trailing arm.

[SCOTI]

I would definitely go aftermarket for the Panhard bar. ECE & CPP offer kits.

[degree01]

Ok thank you all for your replies I think i might just keep the same and just convert to 5 lugs, seems easier.

thanks again

[ruffrida2005]

You can swap the rear ends, just fine and easy, One thang to take in mind is the 71-87 rear is a little wider then the 63-69's. I believe it is 1.5" per side. You will have to get the correct backspacing rims.