1969 4x4 front axle - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Sven · 04-06-2014, 01:56 PM

I have a 1969 4x4 with drums and leaf springs all around. I'm done with the drums and want to get disk brakes on it. The problem is, as far as I know, it's impossible to retrofit disks to the front of a 67-71 due to the closed knuckle.

Anyway, I'm looking at replacing the front axle (and the complete braking system) from a 72-87 (the later the better), which, I understand, is a direct bolt in.

Anyone know if the direct bolt in for this is actually true? I'm a bit of a neophyte, so any help from the gurus before I start spending money would be great.

Thanks,
-Steve

**too much stuff** · 04-06-2014, 02:11 PM

Basically a bolt in and go from 71 and newer. I think there was some little change in the late 70s, but it was minor. Make sure the gears match the rear, and i wouldn't spend much on one. There are alot of them out there.

Sven · 04-06-2014, 02:16 PM

Thanks mate!

1972RedNeck · 04-06-2014, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sven

I have a 1969 4x4 with drums and leaf springs all around. I'm done with the drums and want to get disk brakes on it. The problem is, as far as I know, it's impossible to retrofit disks to the front of a 67-71 due to the closed knuckle.

Lucky for you, it is very possible and quite simple.

http://www.blackbirdscustomtrucks.com/index25.html

BLT gmc · 04-06-2014, 07:10 PM

Search the threads there are quite a few addressing this issue. The one I found most helpful is titled "Dana 44 closed knuckle disc brakes" by danw210
If your are committed to keeping the original axle it can be done. With that said the quickest least expensive way is to do the post 71 open knuckle swap. Travel well, Bruce

04-06-2014, 01:56 PM	#1
Sven Registered User Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Laveen, AZ Posts: 69	1969 4x4 front axle I have a 1969 4x4 with drums and leaf springs all around. I'm done with the drums and want to get disk brakes on it. The problem is, as far as I know, it's impossible to retrofit disks to the front of a 67-71 due to the closed knuckle. Anyway, I'm looking at replacing the front axle (and the complete braking system) from a 72-87 (the later the better), which, I understand, is a direct bolt in. Anyone know if the direct bolt in for this is actually true? I'm a bit of a neophyte, so any help from the gurus before I start spending money would be great. Thanks, -Steve __________________ 1969 Chevrolet 4x4 C10 Pickup

04-06-2014, 02:11 PM	#2
too much stuff Roadtrip! Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Grand Rapids MN Posts: 13,705	Re: 1969 4x4 front axle Basically a bolt in and go from 71 and newer. I think there was some little change in the late 70s, but it was minor. Make sure the gears match the rear, and i wouldn't spend much on one. There are alot of them out there. __________________ 67 gmc custom lwb dakota truck. Sold...And bought back 69 swb 4x4 project (in progress) 70 c-10 lwb texas truck 70 4x4/BB/bkts/posi/tach(retired) 70 swb (wifes) 70 jimmy camper 71 K-5 factory 2wd 71 cheyenne 4x4/tach/posi/ plow rig 71 Cheyenne20 BB, buckets, tach, tilt, 4 speed 72 jimmy CST wyoming rig 72 jimmy Colorado rig 72 lifted texas 4x4 3/4 ton burb 65 fury conv. 383/auto 65 chrysler 300 "L" 413 auto

04-06-2014, 02:16 PM	#3
Sven Registered User Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Laveen, AZ Posts: 69	Re: 1969 4x4 front axle Thanks mate! __________________ 1969 Chevrolet 4x4 C10 Pickup

04-06-2014, 07:10 PM	#5
BLT gmc Registered User Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: West Iowa Posts: 1,106	Re: 1969 4x4 front axle Search the threads there are quite a few addressing this issue. The one I found most helpful is titled "Dana 44 closed knuckle disc brakes" by danw210 If your are committed to keeping the original axle it can be done. With that said the quickest least expensive way is to do the post 71 open knuckle swap. Travel well, Bruce



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