‘78 K10 - Front Axle Not Centered?

[RyanAK]

Hey, gang. As I’m working through the Suburban, I’ve noticed that the front axle isn’t centered under the truck. I thought I noticed it a few months ago with stock steelies and smaller tires, but recently put 265/75R16 General Grabbers on it and the off-center of the axle is now more obvious. Right hand tire is proud of the wheel well. Driver side tucked in. Maybe 1-1/2” off center.

It definitely seems like drivetrain-to-frame rather than body-to-frame... I’ve noted a few mentions on forum threads that our 4x4 trucks were built with the driveline offset to the passenger side, but I’m suspicious. I do know the front track is wider than the rear.

Any thoughts? Truck rides and tracks nice enough down the highway except for a vibration between 65-75mph I’m chasing.

Curious, eh?

Here’s a pic of the right hand rubber protruding.

[v30crewcab]

wish I had an answer for you but I don't.

[Matt Man]

on my 81 my front axle sticks out on the driver side. I have looked at a lot 4x4 squares and most of them stick out on one side or the other a little bit. When I had my truck aligned they checked the frame on my truck and it was fine. when I did my cab mounts, I could have moved the body over a bit to make the axle the same on both sides but I would have to move the bed, bumpers etc. I wouldn't worry about it.

[RyanAK]

Thanks, Matt. I’ll see what I can do about not worrying about it. I can be persnickety.

Here’s a good visual.

[1976gmc20]

I looked at my 91 and the front axle might be a little bit offset to the right.

Interesting the "square bodies" aren't really all that square if you're trying to figure out something like this There is considerable taper behind the rear door.