87 Leaf Springs on a 65 Fleetside

[wpotter]

Havent started this project yet and wanted to see if anyone has done or knows if this will work. I have a 65 Fleetside and a complete 87 Suburban frame. My plan is to use the complete front crossmember and power steering box up front. I am wondering if the rear leaf springs and hangers will work on the 65 frame? If not I can use the 5 lug rear end and change the saddles. Let me know!!! Thanks

[jayoldschool]

A step backwards, IMO. The long arms and coils on your truck are superior to leafs. Your rear is stronger than the 8.5 ten bolt, too. If you really want to use the 8.5 from the burb, yes, just take the mounts off, and weld on the appropriate perches.

If you want to five lug it to match the front, just redrill the 65 axles and drums. Easy!

[Palf70Step]

I agree, keep the coil/trailing arms on the rear. Weld the appropriate perches to the 85 rear & hook it up to your truck. You'll be 3/4" wider on each side due to the longer axles, but it will work just fine. The sotk 66 rear end is considered stronger, but you shouldn't have any issues using the 85 rear.