The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 8-Lug change over on a '53 1/2T

Contemplating upgrading the suspension on my '53 GMC project P/U, from its 1/2T [6-Lug] to the 3/4 or 1T [8-Lug] specs for increasing its load capacity and be a stable ride. [I drive a 4-door CK3500 truck]. I want to keep the straight axle design, but am unsure which years can accomplish this feat. I will go with a more modern rear end and create new suspension modifications as necessary. I would rather stay with the stock chassis and build from that, than go after an S-10 or a newer 1-ton chassis replacement.
Granted this change will give the front axle more wheeltread, and the front fenders may end up being flared or widened. Will modify as necessary when the time comes. Figured It'd be better to ask questions first before getting in over my head.

The simplest way to go would be a complete axle/spring swap. I think the steering gear and associated linkage should hook up with little, if any modifications. You should be aware that no disc brake conversions exist at the present time to upgrade the 8-lug to more modern brakes, so do a complete rebuild on the drum system before you get it on the road!
Jerry

Ok. Truck is finally home in my garage. I have pictures posted on Facebook. Can I rephrase the question?
Is there a way to swap the torque tube rear end finnards for a more modern 3/4 ton carrier assembly, and if so, which one is it?
There are aftermarket modifiers for front axle ball bearings to roller bearings. It has no steering box, so what would also fit that would be a GM part?

Sounds like you need a 3/4 or 1 ton truck, that would be the simplest way to get the heavier running gear, springs, and even frame.
Every few weeks someone ask how to get rid of the 8 lug axles on a 3/4 or 1 ton because they want the 1/2 ton stuff.
Wait for the next person to ask that question and offer to trade complete trucks or at least from the frame down plus bed and running boards.

Grigg

Yeah. What Grigg said. Most guys who obtain a 3/4 ton truck work to make it a 1/2 ton because you can buy disc brakes, freeway rear end gears and lotsa stuff you can't get for a 3/4 (like wheels and tires). It would make more sense to start with a 3/4 ton truck if that's what you want. The frame, suspension, spindles and hubs are beefier in a 3/4 and the eaton rear end is very heavy duty and appears to me to be more like a one ton (I've put 4,000 lbs in mine.) However the diff gears are 4:57 and there are no aftermarket gears for these things so you have to find a 4:11 third member from a later model truck to make it driveable at freeway speeds. (With the 3/4 chasis you could intall a later model 3/4 ton rear end. Take care to measure carefully to make sure it fits and you might have to move spring perches.) Keep in mind that the 3/4 has no roller bearing or disc brake conversion kit. (Guys have figured out how to do this conversion on their own)But the brake shoes on the 3/4 are big and with a power brake booster they stop pretty well.
Something else to consider... I had the leaf springs in my '96 F150 beefed up to give me better load handling capability and that has worked pretty well so you might consider that as a compromise.