The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop 1949 GMC P/U - Rear Setup

This is a 1 Ton truck (pretty sure). I know there were options for rear ends & I know it’s not a torque tube, but the question is, can an 8 bolt stock rear handle an 400hP LS swap? I have an ‘87 2wd s-10 rear ready to replace it (more wheel/tire options on the 5 bolt) but is that even doable? Reason I’m asking is most people are modding 1/2tons and 3/4s, not as many 1 ton (non duallys) out there so it’s a little more of a challenge.

Consider that the stock rear end ratio on 1 tons was 5.14:1 while you are deciding to change it out or not.

I don’t think 5.14 will give me the highway speed I’m looking for. But I see there is a 4.10 gear swap or something out there for the Eaton HO that might give me a little more speed for long haul travel. I guess my next question will be about modern rear end swap options for this 1 ton…

EffDubya,

You want to take a look at this very excellent "on-topic" Tech Tip from the main Tech Tip page.

Right on the "upgrade" subject you are asking about!

Dan

FF 14 bolt, D-70 and 80 are optional rear axles that have a good selection of modern ratios. Obviously bolt patterns and width must match.

Ed

I gave up trying to find a 4.10 ratio Eaton HO and installed a 14-bolt rear from a 1986 C3500. I needed to change the srping perches and shock brackets etc. following the excellent write up regarding this conversion. I have a 1950 3600 so your setup may be different but the pictures look really familiar.

What are you doing for a bed on it? The weight limit on the S10 axle is much lower and you could consume the greatest majority of your carrying capacity with just that.

I have a Nova rear end in my 54. But the gear ratio is 2.73 I am told. But it is OK for what I use it for, transportation like a car. It does have a T5 transmission and the original 235 engine.