I have a 1987 K5 Blazer and would like to have Eaton elec lockers installed on original 10 bolt front and rear. Is this a bad idea to use original stuff. Was told I really need to upgrade to 12 bolt because its a little stronger. If I change out axels to aftermarket 30 spline, new gears,New lockers, is it worth it for this 10 bolt?

 

A 12 bolt really aint that much stronger. How big of a tire are you running also? Your steering is gonna suck too the truck is always gonna want to pull straight.

 

I have 35" BFG's with 4" lift,cut out wheel weels a little. It rides very nice both on and off road. I plan on keeping it till death do us part. Just wanted to make sure i was not making mistake by not upgrading before spending a bunch of money on lockers,axels,and gears. I truly appreciate your advise.

 

If you go locked with 35's on 10-bolt axles, you are asking for problems. I agree that the 12 bolt isn't that much stronger than a 10-bolt and if you were looking to do a swap, you should go straight to the dana-60 up front and 14-bolt full floater in the rear.

 

Was not really wanting to do swap. But want to the best I can with this truck. Will I have a bunch of stuff to change if I switch? Also I am not really planning on beating up this truck. Really it is intended to take hunting and not get stuck.

 

You just have to know your limitations. If you break a rear axle shaft, you won't be going anywhere.

You will need the axles, conversion u-joints, and new u-bolts. If you get the 14BFF out of a 3/4 ton truck, it will bolt right in without moving the spring perches, but if you can find a 1ton gm truck with the D60 and 14BFF, then you get the benefit of a matched pair, but have to move the spring perches in.

 

Thank you very much.

 

lock the back and get a winch you'll be able to get through anything if you dont go to hard on it. thats how my truck is set up now and love it

 

Appreciate the advise all. Just decided to keep original, and upgrade axels with lockers. Do not plan on getting crazy on trail,just want the extra traction the lockers will provide.

I did actually do the winch first. Works great 12,000 Smitty. Hid it behind the bumper. Thanks for that advise too.