65 rear end

[enick72]

I have searched and read many threads but just wanted to double check since most threads start down a different road they started on. I'm sure there is one out there that explains just what i need but may not be seaarching correctly.

I have found locally parts to change over to disc fronts and 5 bolt pattern and wanted to make sure that I'm right about changing the rear diff. From what I have read it looks like 67-72 1/2 ton rear diff is a direct bolt-in to the 65. I just want to make sure before I go and buy one and waste money.
Thanks in advance.

[raycow]

They will all bolt up to the trailing arms and panhard bar. However, 71-72 rears (and some 70) are about 1-1/2" wider than the earlier ones. Also, only 71-72 has a 5 lug pattern from the factory.

Ray

[enick72]

so for exact fit I should be looking for 67-70?

[Captainfab]

A rear diff from '65-'72 will be a direct bolt on. The '65-'70 rear differentials are 6 lug, although you can buy 5 lug conversion axles. The '71-'72's are 1.5" wider than previous years and came from the factory with 5 lugs. I left out the '63 & '64's since they have a different panhard bar mount.

Originally Posted by enick72

so for exact fit I should be looking for 67-70?

[fleetsidelarry]

Enick72, if I could offer a suggestion. If your plans call for wide tires and wheels and if you haven't already pulled things apart, measure the current clearance between the fender flange and the tire, note the tire and wheel size and wheel back-spacing, and, just for kicks, the amount of space available on the inside (there's a good bit of room for wider rims to the inside).

I mention this because my '66 Fleetside has a '71/'72 rear and the previous owner had put 8 inch wide "deep dish" (6" offset)cragars on, requiring the fender flange to be flattened.

Don't know whether you have a Fleetside or a Step but you shouldn't have any clearance problems with stock sizes. If you want something fatter, the info will allow you to choose your new wheel/tire combo without guess work.

[enick72]

I'm a little slow but I got it now I think I have been confusing myself with everything I have read. It is a step side but don't mind the extra 3/4" on each side if I go that route. I have a set of wheels that I really like and also wondered this;
If I change out the front brakes/spindles to disc with a 5 lug pattern can I just swap out the rotors for 6 lug? This would allow my to keep the wheels I have and not have to mess with the rear. I think I have read somthing about this somewhere but I've read so much in the last week it's kind of an overload.

[raycow]

Originally Posted by enick72

If I change out the front brakes/spindles to disc with a 5 lug pattern can I just swap out the rotors for 6 lug? This would allow my to keep the wheels I have and not have to mess with the rear.

Yes, there is an aftermarket 6 lug rotor that is a direct swap for the 1-1/4" thick 5 lug. Most of the specialty parts vendors that offer disc conversions have it available. However, keep in mind that that pre-71 15" factory wheels may not clear the calipers.

Ray

[enick72]

thanks for the info guys, I think I am good to go. I will not be using factory wheels so that part should not be a problem but a good thing to keep in mind.