Conversion 6 lug to 5 lug on rear

Discussion in '1947-1954' started by J__P__, Aug 1, 2005.

  1. J__P__

    J__P__ Member

    Joined:
    Feb 7, 2005
    Messages:
    37
    Is it possible to convert the original rear end of my 54 3100 from a 6 lug to a 5 lug bolt pattern?

    I had heard that there may be a possibility that the original axle shafts could be swapped with 5 lug axle shafts from another vehicle. If so, what axle shafts will fit? What other items need to be considered with this sort of swap?

    As another possible option, I am considering having a machinist fill and drill the original axles and drums to go from 6 to 5 lugs. Anyone have experience with this option (good or bad)?

    As always, your advice is truly appreciated.

    Thanks,
    JP
     
  2. 48ER

    48ER Member

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    Oct 30, 2003
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    DILLON USA
    RE: Conversion 6 lug to 5 lug on re

    48ER
    JP,
    I read about the fill and drill method; but if you just want the advantage of disc brakes and don't care whether it's five lug or six; I ran across a six lug disc conversion for 47-54 chevy trucks at www.classicperform.com. They even have the directions on how to do it using the orignal axle. As far as switching out axles, I have no idea.
    48ER
     
  3. coilover

    coilover Member

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    RE: Conversion 6 lug to 5 lug on re

    You might need to check out Moser Engineering in Portland, Indiana. They redrill axles and drums for like 20 bucks a side. We have a mill and index table and still send a lot to them, it's cheaper than the set-up time.
     
  4. 58 chevy

    58 chevy Guest

    RE: Conversion 6 lug to 5 lug on re

    As for the swapping the axles- no can do...GM did not change over to 5 lugs on the trucks untill 1971, first year for disc brakes on the front too; if it was a later year rearend like a 63-70 you could easily swap out the axles, but.... you have a earlier set up and the splines, and how wide the rear end is, is also a issue, your best bet would be to have your axles filled and drilled.

    Jesse Hazell Chevy Duty Tech.
     
  5. vwnate1

    vwnate1 Member

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    RE: Conversion 6 lug Disc Brakes

    A buddy of mine made up 6 lug dic brakes by using Datsun pickup rotors and calipers , he only needed to make up simple calpier brackets and spacers for the wheel bearings to properly center the rotors .

    Used the original master cylinder too and it stops on a dme , I've driven the truck .

    -Nate
     

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