What are the differences between 1/2- and 3/4-ton axles?

[Brad54]

I'm going to start a '62 K-10 project this winter, and am wondering what the main differences are between the 1/2- and 3/4-ton front axles.

Well, rear axle too, for that matter.

I'll assume the axle flanges, drums and wheels are 8-lug vs 6-lug.

Are the bearings bigger? (front and rear axle)
U-joints in the front axle bigger?

For the front end, are the tie-rod ends and other steering linkage larger diameter?

I'll also assume there's a little more leaf spring in the 3/4-ton trucks, but hauling won't be a consideration for me.
Aggressive off-roading won't be either, but going back on hunting and fishing trails will definitely be on the agenda.

-Brad

[kwmech]

Yes to all of your comments, u-joints will be 1 step up in the rear also for the driveline

[argonaut]

1/2 ton rear is semi floating. 3/4 ton is full floater. Usually also a couple inches wider overall.

Front 1/2 and 3/4 ton dana 44s are, for similar years, the same all the way out to the knuckles. Hubs are different obviously. There are also two types of 3/4 ton spindles and hubs: a large bearing and a small bearing.

[Brad54]

Originally Posted by argonaut

1/2 ton rear is semi floating. 3/4 ton is full floater. Usually also a couple inches wider overall.

Front 1/2 and 3/4 ton dana 44s are, for similar years, the same all the way out to the knuckles. Hubs are different obviously. There are also two types of 3/4 ton spindles and hubs: a large bearing and a small bearing.

Damn... Doesn't look like it's going to be an easy trip to the junkyard to find the heavier axles if I want to.

Just as well... I really don't think I'm going anywhere that is going to break my 1/2-ton axles. Pastures, dirt roads, the occasional woods. And it'll almost always be empty in the box.

-Brad

[argonaut]

Unless you are hauling, or running large tires, I say really no need to step up to 3/4 ton axles.
Personally, I don't like semi floating axles. But in reality they are fine for light duty vehicles.