converting from 6 to 5 lug

[panhead59]

Is there some kind of wheel adaptor to go from 6 lug to 5 lug on the rear of a 68 swb? If so, how much does that affect wheel choice ( thinking of back space with 6" drop springs). Or do I have to go with axles? If that's the case, finding a "new" 5 lug rear would most likely be cheaper. Not building a hot rod that would require a "good" rearend.

[bbbc10]

Stay away from adapters those things are dangerous jus get axles

[PGSigns]

Yup axles are the way to go. About the best price out there. https://www.summitracing.com/parts/y...FcmEswodoAoDbA
Jimmy

[zach_carver]

I used early classic for my 5 lug conversion. It was actually Yukon axles though.

[andrewmp6]

There is adapters but what a set of good ones cost you can also buy the axles in that link.The other thing is the adapters are thick like a inch or more which will push your rear wheels out that can cause problems with rubbing maybe.Its easier and safer to buy the axles trust me.

[chris mc bride]

Agree stay away from adapter . Think about it breaking at 70 mph and tire passing your spinning truck. How much will that cost you?

[andrewmp6]

I broke a ball joint on a car on a city road and they was a white knuckle ride tell i got it stopped.Hate to picture losing a wheel on the interstate.

[panhead59]

OK, axels it will be!!! That's just what I needed to know. Thanks for all the replies!!!!! Next, I'll research changing out those axle seals while I'm in there. Don't know if they are pressed in or not. Never have changed axles before to be honest. I've got the chassis service manual and 40 years experience working on these old cars/trucks, so it shouldn't be too hard. I've just always farmed rear end work out to a pro. Thanks again!!! Heck, it may be easier and cost effective just to find a posi somewhere.

[andrewmp6]

Do you want to change the diff to a lsd or change the gearing in it ?If so id wait and have a shop do it all for you if you don't trust yourself doing it.

[panhead59]

I just need/want to change from 6 lug to 5 lug. Any 5 lug rears out there fairly close to Roanoke, (S.W.) Va. ?

[andrewmp6]

Honestly that axle kit is cheaper then your gonna find a bolt in 5 lug rear end for it.They only made them a couple of years at the end of your body style.Anything else will take cutting and welding to fit and thats even if its the right width.

[panhead59]

OK thanks. Yeah I've been looking around for a few days and not much luck finding a 5 lug. What years should I be looking for to fit a 68?

[Warrens69GMC]

You have Leaf Springs or Coil Springs?

[andrewmp6]

The half ton went 5 lug in 71 so 71-72 will bolt in as long as it has the same rear suspension as yours.But i think gm made those years rear ends a tiny bit wider it won't matter if your running stock style and size rims but if you want 20s or bigger then your back spacing comes in to play.

[panhead59]

Coil springs. To tell ya'll the truth, I like the "deep set" look of 15" Craegers on the back. That would be more like zero backspacing wouldn't it? I don't even know if they make those anymore. Might have to go with a torque thrust or some other wheel to get correct backspacing. Anybody know how wide a rear tire one can go using the least amount of backspacing?

[andrewmp6]

Its hard to say a backspacing with out known if your using the factory rear end or swapping to something else.

[panhead59]

OK I got lucky (I think/hope) and was dreaming of this blonde.!!!!..... seriously, I found a '72, 5 lug rear with 308 gears. Not a posi but at least it should get about as good as u CAN get gas mileage. Bought it from a local junkyard for $375. I'll replace seals, brake cylinders, etc., and let her rock!!! Pretty happy since axles were gonna cost $300 or so. The next closest one from the junkyard site was in Ky., I beleive. Another in Ohio. 6 lug rear measured 55 1/4" from outter round lip on backing plate to other side, and the '72 5 lug is 57" from the same spots. So 1 3/4" wider. Should I just replace the bushings in the track bar or is there an advantage to buying a new adjustable one at this point?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by panhead59

OK I got lucky (I think/hope) and was dreaming of this blonde.!!!!..... seriously, I found a '72, 5 lug rear with 308 gears. Not a posi but at least it should get about as good as u CAN get gas mileage. Bought it from a local junkyard for $375. I'll replace seals, brake cylinders, etc., and let her rock!!! Pretty happy since axles were gonna cost $300 or so. The next closest one from the junkyard site was in Ky., I beleive. Another in Ohio. 6 lug rear measured 55 1/4" from outter round lip on backing plate to other side, and the '72 5 lug is 57" from the same spots. So 1 3/4" wider. Should I just replace the bushings in the track bar or is there an advantage to buying a new adjustable one at this point?

Width difference should be 1.5" between the two housings.

The longer the Panhard bar (track bar) is, the better. Although both will get the job done, aftermarket long bars are better vs the factory short bars.

[panhead59]

WHY BETTER ? Longer? I thought they were meant to center the rearend. If so, they should be the same length. Just wondering.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by panhead59

WHY BETTER ? Longer? I thought they were meant to center the rearend. If so, they should be the same length. Just wondering.

The bar centers the housing @ ride height. Compress or extend from that point & the bar swings on an arc which allows for some side shift. The shorter the bar, the greater the side to side movement as it travels through the arc.

The longer bar means less side shift during suspension travel. Not a big deal on a stock height truck but definitely more important when lowered.

[panhead59]

Great explanation. I'm glad I asked. Thank you very much!!!!!!