Late model Colorado or Trailblazer rear axle swap

[HackJob65]

I have been searching the site a bit without much luck. So has anyone looked much into using a late model Colorado/Canyon or Trailblazer rear end. And if so do any of you know the wms to wms dimensions. All I can accurately find is that Z71 opt is wider than a Z85. I know the bolt pattern is smaller on the Trailblazer but have no idea of the width or if there is enough material to redrill for the 6 on 5.5 pattern. This swap interest me because I currently have two old 65-69 12bolts that both need a rebuild due to rust and wear and a late model with the disc brakes can be had for around $200 at salvage yards. Any definite known info would be much appreciated to keep me from driving to several Salvege yards and spending a day measuring.

[gimmy 64]

i know the trailblazer has a wierd bolt pattern only on these cars

[Monte's62]

Just read a build on here about a week ago, where a member installed a late model Colorado rear end. It was a couple inches or so too narrow so he used some temporary shims. He was planning on going with a little wider tire in the rear anyway. I don't know the exact width and if I find the build again I will post a link.

[Captainfab]

This is the only one that comes to mind. Post #99.

http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...=434120&page=4

[Monte's62]

That's it Captain. Kudos to RockTonka for trying this and sharing.

[HackJob65]

So I went to salvage yard today and got to measure wms to wms on 2 Colorado axles for 2004 models Z85 opt is 61 in and Z71 is 63-3/8 so neither is far off from original width of 62-1/4

[Sledgebone]

There was also a thread of someone using a Ford 8.8. I have one for another project from an Explorer that has trac-lock and disc brakes. I would go measure it but it's buried in snow! Just another option.

[Mathew21]

Originally Posted by Sledgebone

There was also a thread of someone using a Ford 8.8. I have one for another project from an Explorer that has trac-lock and disc brakes. I would go measure it but it's buried in snow! Just another option.

I know I read that someone else on the board used an explorer rear axle in there truck. I have an 8.8 out of a 2000 explorer in my garage for a Jeep project. It measure's 59.5"

[HackJob65]

There are several choices of rearends if you don't care about bolt pattern this is one of the few that fit close to stock and retain the 6 lug pattern. My truck is staying 6 lug and not only was the rearend in it rusty from years of condensation and sitting but as was two parts trucks I have