Why do ¾ ton and 1-ton trucks have 8 lugs?

The simple answer is that 8 lugs are better than 4, 5, or 6…  You have a truck that’s engineered to haul heavier loads so you have a beefier or heavier axle, your suspension is designed to hold up under more weight, linkages are stronger, and in most cases, your engine will output more torque…

Read More

Why Should I Upgrade to Heavy-Duty Emergency Brake Calipers?

The Benefits of Heavy-Duty Brake Calipers and How to Get the Most Out of Them Why should I upgrade to heavy-duty emergency brake calipers? That is an excellent question with a short answer of “for better stopping power and braking control” and a much longer answer that we will address in this blog. This heavy-duty…

Read More

How To Replace Your Rear Axle Seals

Are you the proud owner of an axle that’s leaking diff fluid out the axle tube? Or are you converting your rear drum brakes to disc brakes? Either way, chances are you need to change the rear axle seal. We’ll show you how. What Is A Rear Axle Seal? Axles have three seals: One pinion…

Read More

Rear 10 Bolt Or 12 Bolt To 14 Bolt Swap – Tips and Advice

Do you own a 1981 or newer Chevy or GMC truck? Or maybe a Blazer, Tahoe, or Suburban? Does it have a 14 bolt rear axle? If not, do you want one? If your answer is yes, then a 14 bolt rear axle swap may be in your future. In this article we’ll share some…

Read More

What’s The Best Gear Oil For The 14 Bolt Axle?

Wondering which gear oil is best for your 14 bolt axle? You’re not alone – it’s a common question, and the answers you’ll find online are all over the map. Many people recommend 80W-90 or 75W-90, but we have found that the best gear oil for the 14 bolt axle is 75W-140. We say this because we…

Read More

What 14-Bolt Do I Have? GMC or Chevy 14-Bolt Rear Axle Identification

This is why GMC or Chevy 14-bolt rear axle identification is a challenge. For decades, Chevy and GMC trucks, vans and SUVs came equipped with a 14-bolt axle. Between 1973 and 2000, a few 14-bolt axle variations were produced. If you’re wondering what kind of 14-bolt axle you have – and you’re working with a…

Read More

What Is A “Corporate” 14 Bolt Axle?

Starting in 1973, millions of 14 bolt rear axles were produced for use in Chevrolet and GMC trucks and vans, as well as quite a few commercial vehicles. The 14 bolt is revered for its toughness and reliability, and the 14 bolt is particular popular with off-road enthusiasts. Many people refer to the 14 bolt…

Read More

14 Bolt Axle Identification Chart

If you’re wondering which 14 bolt axle you have – full-float or semi-float, dual rear wheel or single rear wheel, slide-on drum or stud mounted drum – the chart below will help you figure it out. NEW: You can download a printable version of the chart below here. A couple of notes: You can’t really…

Read More