The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 1998 S10 six lug

Thanks for your response. I understand what you're saying, and I agree that the standard S10 axle may not be a good choice for my 3/4 ton.

My limited research on this 6 lug S10 axle indicates that the 4x4 S10s had a six lug axle set up. Since I have already swapped out the ole stock Muncie 4 speed trans, it sort of makes sense to match the axle to the trans. I don't really do any heavy hauling in my 42 3/4 ton, just the occasional run to Home Depot, or Tractor Supply. Living in South Jersey, we also do not have any hills that would challenge the driveline in any way, even with a full load.

Because I'm running a 1962 Chevy 235, I'm not producing enough torque/horsepower to break the S10 diff/axle. Given the lack of available/usable parts for the OE 3/4 ton rear, and it's deteriorating condition, I need to do a swap anyway. The 3/4 ton rear parts are even harder to find. I've been looking for new side gears for more than 3 years now. With that issue, and the worsening leaks and noises, it's not gonna last much longer anyways.

I've asked the seller for the numbers from his axle so, we'll see what that tells me about suitability for my truck.