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97 14 Bolt ff in 86 blazer

Old Oct 30, 2022 | 03:29 PM
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Default 97 14 Bolt ff in 86 blazer

So first off I apologize I'm sure this has been discussed dozens of times but I really can't find anything on it.

I've been working on rebuilding a 14 Bolt out of a 97 Chevy 3/4 ton. But I just realized the axle is noticably shorter than my stock 10 bolt. In hindsight I should've gotten one closer to the same year, but I found this one for a good deal and couldn't say no. Has anyone done a similar swap? I could probably use spacers but I don't love that idea
 
Old Oct 30, 2022 | 04:38 PM
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There are several different width 14-bolts. It depends on whether it came from a SRW truck, a dually, or a cab and chassis. Also, the 3/4-ton version and the 1-ton version have different leaf spring spacing. For a proper-width, bolt-on swap, you want the 3/4-ton SRW one out of a square body truck. The later model ones like you have will take a little more work.

What is the width of the one you have, from the outsides of the wheel mounting surfaces? How wide is your 10-bolt? 67 inches or so?
 

Last edited by Tom A; Oct 30, 2022 at 04:41 PM.
Old Oct 31, 2022 | 10:57 AM
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Originally Posted by Tom A
There are several different width 14-bolts. It depends on whether it came from a SRW truck, a dually, or a cab and chassis. Also, the 3/4-ton version and the 1-ton version have different leaf spring spacing. For a proper-width, bolt-on swap, you want the 3/4-ton SRW one out of a square body truck. The later model ones like you have will take a little more work.

What is the width of the one you have, from the outsides of the wheel mounting surfaces? How wide is your 10-bolt? 67 inches or so?
I'll double check exact lengths when I get home. I believe the new one is 3-4 inches narrower. I know it'll already take some cutting and welding to get it to fit, but the length is that I'm most concerned about
 
Old Oct 31, 2022 | 11:06 AM
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Take a picture of your hubs, too. You might be able to change them out for some with a different offset.

Worst case, spacers aren't the end of the world. It's such a strong axle to begin with, that you won't cause any problems in your application if you weaken it slightly.

Personally, I would look for the "right" one if you aren't into this one for much yet. They're readily available and pretty cheap. I think I paid $175 for mine (before putting $3k into it, lol).
 
Old Oct 31, 2022 | 08:57 PM
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Okay so from backing plate to backing plate the stock axle is 56-57 inches. New one is 53. Granted I took these measurements in the dark so take that with a grain of salt.

I've already painted the axle, completely stripped it, bought a couple hundred dollars worth of bearings and seals, plus a Detroit locker. I guess if nothing else I can sell it and buy the right one. I'll look into hubs first though, thanks for your help
 
Old Oct 31, 2022 | 09:12 PM
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Yeah, I don't blame you. If you did decide to buy a different one, at least those parts you bought should fit.

For reference, this is one of the hubs that came on mine.

 
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