FWIW,
I investigated the S-10 swap, even have a nice low mileage '97 rolling chassis sitting next to my '48.
Not liking front wheel spacers, or the AD engineering solution, I am building a front cross member for the stock frame using the GM Metric locating points. This cross member will be an either/or bolt-in or weld.
S-10's were built from the GM Metric chassis (78-88 GM midsize) parts bin. Same spindles, brakes, uppers and lowers as the GM metrics with minor changes in the upper a-arm mounting points. however the S-10 has the narrower 54.38 track width to match the original Izusu (Chevy Luv), the GM Metric has the 58.38 and the S-10 4x4 has the 54.38 requiring front wheel spacers. I have even investigated widening the s-10 suspension, and have a method to do so, however that is more work than current plans.
Long story short. I will be using the 8.5" rear from an S-10 4x4 with my new cross member and all new aftermarket uppers, lowers for the front with '98 or newer blazer spindles with dual piston brakes. (FYI - GM metric chassis are the foundation for most stock cars driving arround the country)
adding some S-10 axle background - S-10's prior to 1988 had the 7.5" ring gear. 1988 started the 7.63" ring gear with what I believe is the 28 splined axles. The 8.5" ring gear is a shortened GM corporate 10-bolt. Either way, the same 7.5", 7.63" units were in camaro's and firebirds for years. The 8.5 is beefier because it is bigger.
Scott
