I already have a FF 14 bolt but trying to find the 60 front that I want is next to impossible without having to $1000. I have a 10 bolt front. I am wanting to do the 3/4 ton 44 swap up front any ideas on where to go looking for the parts I need? I went to the local pull'n'save and they didn't have anything. I want to do it the swap starting with the spindle and working my way out. Please help.

 

The D44 is only marginally stronger than the 10-bolt you have under the front now.

From your questions, it sounds as if you are wanting to swap in the internals from a D44 into your 10-bolt. Is this correct?

 

Yes, I read about a swap starting with D44 3/4 ton spindles, the backing plates, hub/rotor assemblies, bearings and races, new seals, locking nuts and washers. Here is the website:
http://www.coloradok5.com/8lugconversion.shtml
I know it will be a marginal difference btw the 10 bolt and D44, but at the moment I can't afford to put up the 1000-1500 for a 60 front. I am just trying to find a place to get the parts cheaper than what the guy quoted on the website.

 

Ok, for some reason I thought you were swapping differential, half shafts, everything on out and that did not make sense to me considering that the spindles on out were all that is required for the 8 bolt swap.

Have you priced pieces new? Sometimes you would be surprised at what these components cost new.

Also, you may want to drive around town and see if you can locate any 1ton or even 3/4 ton pickups stuffed into the weeds anywhere. I have quite a few prospects in my area that may be good to harvest parts off of. If my dad had not of junked a bunch of things, I would already have a D60/14FF under my K5.

 

One more thing I bought some 315/75 r16 pro comp all terrains on 16x10 mickey thompson 2 rims. Everyone I talk to around here says they won't fit on my truck (the rims because of the back spacing) I was going to get a 4" lift through Nat. Tire & Wheel for $499 including replacement springs. 1st ?: will I be able to squeeze those tires under the my K-5 or do you think i need 6", and 2nd: What do you know about the rims.

 

Unless you have a body lift, you are going to have some difficulties tucking those tires. They are essentially 35x12.5 tires... I have a 3" BL with stock suspension and some trimming was necessary to fit the 33x12.5 tires that are on it now. An extra inch will not clear 35's, back spacing aside.

 

A body lift doesnt do much good if you still have old saggy stock springs on.
You will be able to fit 35's under a 4 inch suspension lift if you do all 4 springs,
I have seen it and I am doing it on a suburban with 16.5x12 rims
The only issue with back spacing is going to be between the backside lip of your front wheel and where your tie rod connects to the steering nuckle.