Replacing rear axle on 83 k5

[BryanS]

^Well it sounds like it’s got decent power. My otherwise stock gen vi 454 converted to carb “should” be around 300hp….I think. It would posi squeal the old crusty 35s pretty easy. Not so much with new tires now.
But from what you said, your overall plan seems to support a heavier duty axle for those mud runs and extreme curbs at the Dunkin’ Donuts drive thru.
I don’t speak from experience but in the same position I think I’d lean towards a newer 6lug 14 bolt in 4.10 and redo the mounts. Probably a wash $ wise having someone do that vs re-gearing and you get a much stronger axle. I believe semi float 14 bolts are pretty durable. Bonus if you find one from a truck that doesn’t have super high miles and has clean gear oil, shouldn’t have issues for a long time.
JMO.
Sounds like a sweet ride!

Thank you brother. I’m looking for that axle…when I do it I would change the gears in the front and be ready to rock the mall.

 

[Grit dog]

@BryanS that Blazer is really nice! I remember you posting those pics. Looks like someone used 88-91 bumpers front and rear with some 80s side molding to over the holes on the front. Looks clean like that.
I wouldn’t rule out all options and see what you find. Wouldn’t be too outrageous to swap both axles either if you found a set of good 3/4 ton 8 lug. Front axle is basically a direct swap as is the rear. (I think. Idk if there were different rear shock mounts. But easy to tell).
Just spitballing options I’d consider. I don’t have all the axle diameter spline counts etc memorized. But finding a 8 lug 14 bolt sf, you may be able to buy new axle shafts with 6 lug hubs as well.
Some research and guys on this forum should help you figure out all the options to get where you want to be. It’s all time + $$ or $$$.

 

[BryanS]

Thank you…you and a few guys on here have been very helpful. I’ve been out of this scene for 30 years and am all kinds of rusty. Even back in the day I was a ford guy. I’d really be kinda of lost without the advice.

I’m able to put some money in this truck but old enough to not want to do things 2 or 3 times.

I know it’s kind of a franken blazer in terms of grill, bumpers and everything but I like what PO did with it. He also swapped in the 454 with the oil pan resting on the crossmember so there is that

Thank you

 

[Ricko1966]

I'd cut shims to put under the mounts. Loosen the mounts put a jack under the engine,se4 if 1/4 inch will make it clear

 

[BryanS]

I'd cut shims to put under the mounts. Loosen the mounts put a jack under the engine,se4 if 1/4 inch will make it clear

I bought this https://www.offroaddesign.com/73-87...smember-for-big-block-or-ls-applications.html