Hey guys, what if any advantage is there to changing from 6 to 5 lug hubs. My rear axles are new (6 lug) and I plan in the near future changing to front disc brakes. If I go with 5 lug, obviously I would have to change out the new rear axles. (Any reason to change?) Thanks, Skip.
Wheel selection really is the primary reason for changing patterns. Next in line is the cost, since later 5 lug components are old now and readily available. 6 lug disc brakes are also available, but the cost may be higher depending on if it can be done with stock parts or requires a conversion kit. If you're doing a stock appearing restoration, steel wheels can be had in either 5 or 6 lug that look the same with the hub caps in place, except for the 1960 and older clip wheels. These generally don't fit over disc brakes as the back of the original drum brake rim may have clearance issues with the calipers. However this can also be resolved by having one of the custom wheel suppliers like RallyAmerica or Wheel Vintiques use the original clip wheel centers mated to later disc brake rims. Here's a link showing the various brake options: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?t=367260
