The 14-bolt has 3.42 gears and the 70HD has 4.10 gears. The 14-bolt is 67 inches WMS to WMS and the 70HD is 73 inches. So my choices are 4 inches wider than stock, or 10 inches wider.
I was told the Dana was from a mid-80's GM Diesel pickup, though I've not looked up the BOM number from it. From the width I assume it was a dually pickup.
The 14-bolt came to me under a '50 Chevy 1-ton and I don't yet know any more about it than that.
While I'm inclined to use the 14-bolt based on gears and width, my next step is to open them up and look at condition.
I appreciate the responses. You've left me convinced the gears and width and condition are probably the important issues, the difference in maker doesn't seem to make a big difference.
Thanks!
