The Stovebolt Forums Forums The Parking Lot Tons 'o Fun 14 bolt axle swap info

I am doing the 14 bolt conversion on my 1951 GMC 253-22, I acquired a 1976 C&C axle for $100. I am going to utilize the drum brake conversion to single wheel 13x3.5, I am in the process of having two spacers made for the backing plate. I found, through Summit, Currie spring pads, 2 inch width, 3 inch tube size, also having them machined to 3.375. The hardest part so far has been the removal of the old spring pads. The rear came with 3.73 gears but unfortunately water got inside and ruined the gears, so I am converting to 4.10. Also the spider gear cross snapped an end off and took out the carrier, so all new parts inside.

I will provide an update once I have the spacers, to see how everything is going to line up. The biggest problem I have with the HO72, are the brakes, the real reason for the 14 bolt swap, the rear is in really good shape otherwise.

My only concern about the 4.10 gears will be the loss of power from 5.13 gears but will like freeway speeds better. The current engine is a 248 bored .060 over.

Sounds like a reasonable plan.
I doubt you feel a loss of "power" with the faster 4.10 gears. Actually I expect you will appreciate the improvement in how it drives on the highway so much you then wish you had the 3.73 gears you wanted to start with.

When you get a chance please start a new thread so we can follow along with your progress.
If you learn things that need incorporating in this thread then we'll add them here later.
I've noticed technical "how to" threads become less and less useful the longer they get.

Thanks Grigg, I will start a new thread. documenting with pictures. I received the spacers today and they fit perfectly, so well done on the drawing.

Wow Grigg!
Amazing research and engineering on your part! I have a headache just reading through it! The time and dedication you put into this well appreciated!
You never cease to amaze!
Jim