The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Panels 'N Burbs K5 frame for a 57 panel

My son and I are starting our 57 panel Project. We bought a 77 K5 Blazer for the frame and drive line. (Yeah its a 350... and I know you don't all approve) I don't have a problem lengthening the wheel base 7-1/2" but the front tread width is about 6" wider on the K5. (The rear should be fine.)

I noticed that the rims on the K5 are very deep... (I don't know how to explain it) the mounting surface is such that the tires are off center to the outside.

Are there any stock rims readily available to change the offset and narrow the tread width?

Also, will it look strange with different rims on the front than the rear?

I tried posting this in the general truck forum but haven't gotten any replies... I really need help figuring this out.

You can use later model Chevy 4X4 wheels i.e. 88up as they are 6 lug and also they don't have as much off set, I believe there is even a little negative offset to them. If you have'nt gotten too far into it you could try getting a frame from a later model extended cab 4X4 so you wouldn't have to extend it. As far as different rims, I would run the same ones, your only other choice would be to run a narrower front axle like a Jeep or Bronco. Later

Dave

Thanks Bowtie70ss,

I already got the Blazer so the path is already paved... (although it may be a little bumpy) I will keep my eyes out for rims with shallower offset. I would rather avoid changing axles because I dont want to end up with a POS with different ratios.

Hub caps can hide the difference between the wheels.

The axle can be narrowed also.

OldSub,

I wouldn't know where to start with narrowing the axles. I'm sure I could figure it out though. I would just need to obtain an assembly drawing so I could figure out what all needs to be shorter. (have a good machine shop at my disposal)

If anyone knows where I could get a DWG. I'd consider it.

Thanks,

I'd try some different wheels on it and see if there's anything that will make it look right.If that doesn't work,see if a front end from a 67-72 is any closer to the width you want, find out what ratio you have;it shouldn't be too hard to find one with the right ratio.
I also read that Toyota 4X4 axles are the right width,and as durable,if you don't drive like a complete idiot.

I know a narrow-track Dana 44 from a narrow-track Wagoneer is the right width for an AD truck - how much wider is a TF? Maybe the wide-track Wagoneer axle would fit. Then you could switch the knuckles with the ones from the K5 axle and maintain all Chevy steering parts.

Toyota 4X4 rims are the same i have them on my 1989 3/4 ton 4x4 and my 1942 truck has a set on it also