3/4-1/2 ton conversion

[ol'orange]

I have a 59' long fleetside 8 lug gmc. I believe its a GMC 152. I'd like to switch to a half ton 5 or 6 lug pattern for ease of finding and number options for wheels. Obviously the rear should be simple to swap out. But my question is for the front. Can I just remove my 8 lug hubs and replace with a 5 or 6 lug hub? Would I need to also replace the spindle or even the axle as well? Or am I just going to need to find a IFS to weld in instead? Any advice is appreciated!

Thanks A.

[jetnow1]

Easy way is to swap a 1/2 ton axle/spindles/hubs as a unit. The 3/4 ton and 1/2 ton are
different, but will swap as a unit. They do use the same springs so no problem there. Put
a want to buy ad on craigslist, I was able to get a full front end for $100. Lots of guys
taking out the original front end to put in mustang 2 front ends.

If you want to go to IFS the frames are virtually the same, the 3/4 ton is the same shape
from the cab forward though slightly thicker steel. The rear of the frame is different- the
3/4 ton is basically straight, the 1/2 ton flairs out, therefore the 3/4 is narrower in the
rear so any kit's for the 1/2 ton will not fit. The 3/4 ton is already an open rear, while
the 1/2 ton is still torque tube (except for the last models.

If you swap to a 1/2 ton front end and want to stay with drum brakes be sure to get one
51 or later- Chevy switched from Huck style to Bendix style brakes. Much cheaper to rebuild and easier to get parts, and easier to adjust. Huck rhymes with suck!

[ol'orange]

thanks jet, just the info I was in search of!