Axle and transmission upgrade questions

[one_ton_k5]

Hello, this is my first post here.

I just bought a nice 71 k5 that needs some help in order to be all it can be. As you might have guessed by my user name, I am going to install one ton axles and new springs.

I am going with the Dana 60 up front.

For the rear, I searched this site and others and I have come to the conclusion that I will have to move the spring pads and shock mounts. Is there a version of the 14 bolt that would bolt right in so that I could avoid this step?

I know the gov-lok sucks, I am going with the ARB and a disk brake conversion. What are the differences with the later model 14 bolt ff axles and do I need to worry about a carrier break since I will be using an ARB?

I can buy a 1991 one ton Suburban from a friend for all the donor parts.

Thanks for your help, I know that's a lot of questions but I can't seem to find definitive answers by searching.

-Dave

[tll74]

The 10.5 14 bolt was never produced with the spring-shock configuration of the 72 and earlier trucks. So you will have to change them. As for your second question, yes there are carrier breaks 4.10-higher and 4.56-lower. The 10.5 14 bolt is the same inside from birth to current except for the inner pinion bearing which was increased in 1988. I have never heard of or seen a 1 ton suburban. Be carefull with the 91 Sub, it originaly would have come with a 9.5 14 bolt semi float. Unless it was a 2wd 454 truck. hope this helps

[one_ton_k5]

Are you saying there are no suburbans with a 14 bolt FF and D60 combo?

Thanks for the information.

[westcoastflatbedder]

I just put a dana 60 rear in my 72 K10.I got the rear end and leaf spring out of a 76 ford factory highboy truck.It fits perfect,only mods are brake line mods,and I had to shim the leaf springs,perfect fit

[one_ton_k5]

I had heard you could do that. But for me I want one ton gear, as much for the brakes as the strength.

People run 38" tires and don't pay enough attention to their brakes!

I want to stop my 38's on a dime.

Big brakes + big axles = no worries.

[westcoastflatbedder]

I'm pretty sure a 3/4 ton dana 60 and brakes are enough,thats why I changed it over from 1/2 ton

[one_ton_k5]

I wasn't saying the 60 isn't enough, I just want a 14 bolt, that's all.

60's are good axles front OR rear.

[westcoastflatbedder]

I hear ya.Just giving you some options,To each his own.Good luck on your project.