'70 K5 front axle swap w/'80's Dana 44

[Jasko59]

Does anyone know what year Dana 44 front axles I can direct swap / bolt onto my '70 K5 Blazer, with no significant modifications to the assembly? I'm making the swap so I can have disc brakes on the front. I found some axles from '80's era square body K5 and K10 trucks that the seller says will work. I realize I may have to swap out the knuckles. Thanks in advance for any replies.

[A1971Blazer]

anything up to about '88 but it will likely be a corporate 10 bolt...most all after about '78 were 10 bolt...
the D44 is arguably slightly stronger, but if you're not going to bash on it, the 10 bolt is fine...all have disc brakes
everything from the knuckles out will interchange with the D44...the inner axle shafts will not fit...they are slightly larger on the D44
I just did this swap on my '70 K5 using a 10 bolt from an '87 Suburban.
I added the sway bay as well...most of the 80s models will have one.

[Jasko59]

Originally Posted by A1971Blazer

anything up to about '88 but it will likely be a corporate 10 bolt...most all after about '78 were 10 bolt...
the D44 is arguably slightly stronger, but if you're not going to bash on it, the 10 bolt is fine...all have disc brakes
everything from the knuckles out will interchange with the D44...the inner axle shafts will not fit...they are slightly larger on the D44
I just did this swap on my '70 K5 using a 10 bolt from an '87 Suburban.
I added the sway bay as well...most of the 80s models will have one.
Attachment 2269326

Attachment 2269327

Got it. Thanks for the info, it will definitely help.

[Richard]

A working axle from a 72 with disk. Sold to the good guy a while back with my rear axle. Direct bolt in. https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=844297