6 stud drum to 5 stud disc

[rudman]

I have a 68 GMC short with 6 stud drum brakes and rear coils. I want to go to 5 stud front disc and 5 stud rear drum with a 5/3 lowering. What is the best way without breaking the bank?

[lolife99]

Originally Posted by rudman

I have a 68 GMC short with 6 stud drum brakes and rear coils. I want to go to 5 stud front disc and 5 stud rear drum with a 5/3 lowering. What is the best way without breaking the bank?:gmc2:

CAN'T BE DONE!
I just wanted to get your attention.
This question is asked on here,... almost daily!

Many, many people will tell you to just get a donor truck (71-72 or
73-87),... and use those parts to convert your truck.
But the truth is,... these parts are wore out also.
This is a great way to get a set of stock spindles, or a set of dust shield, or a centerlink.
EVERYTHING else needs to be replaced with NEW parts!
All of your '68 parts need to be disassembled and inspected anyway.

Keep your stock crossmember.
Rebuild your existing a-arms.
Buy all the other parts new.

But if you are adding drop spindles,... then you don't even need a donor truck.
Just buy 63-70 conversion spindles.
(they make them in stock versions also)

Read this:
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...68&postcount=4
I tried to explain every possible suspension scenario.

[brad_man_72]

Not saying lowlife doesn't make a good point, but I made money on my swap by buying a parts truck.
Got the front suspension, brakes, rear end, wheels and tires. Sold the engine and trans, scrapped the rest and came out well ahead. This was 4 years ago I haven't needed to change any bushings, bearings, brake parts, just tires.

My old stuff wasn't needing to be replaced either, I just wanted the disc brakes for stopping with my boat trailer.
Posted via Mobile Device

[jocko]

personally, i'd save and go the "new part route". yes, it will take longer, but i'm kinda on the lolife train of thought - I never really liked the idea of stuffing very used parts, possibly more used than the parts I'm replacing (depending on how "used" the donor was) in a major upgrade that I'd been planning for awhile.

Regardless of how you decide. When it comes to the rear end - rather than replacing your entire rear, which is an option, and is also the option that a donor truck would imply - keep in mind CPP makes a simple, and somewhat affordable, 5 stud axle swap for your truck. Might want to check that out for the rear anyway. That way you can match the front wheels and will only need one spare! Good luck.

[lolife99]

Summit also has a good deal on Moser Engineering axles.
They are usually in stock and ship fast!

[rudman]

Thanks Guys! I think I will go with new aftermarket spindles and axles.
Cheers!