CamaroChase

Hey guys, I've started massing hardware for my LS swap and am now looking for a replacement rear end to handle the torque/traction. I have a factory disk brake GM 10-bolt now, (not sure what year, was swapped in by someone else) and would like to keep the disc brakes if possible to cut down on the swap cost. The rear ends I'm looking at are all old 12 bolts (60s and 70s era) that can be had for cheap. Is there any reason not to go with these rear ends? also, can my brakes be adapted to fit with custom axles? I'm on a tight budget and I don't know much about this stuff, so any advice is appreciated.

sofakingdom

iTrader: (1)

The problem you will need to solve will be, the hole in the center of the backing plate won't fit over the axle bearing.

That of course, will come after figuring out torque arm provisions. Get that handled first, then move to brakes.

If they're the ones with cast-iron calipers, don't bother.

big gear head

I don't know what 12 bolt rear ends you are looking at, but I haven't seen any cheap Chevy car 12 bolt rear ends in many years. Basic rebuildable housings are going for around $500 and up now days.


The car 12 bolt uses the very same axle bearings and seals as the 7.5 10 bolt. The 4 bolt brake bolt pattern is also the same. The hub in the center of the axle should be checked along with the outside diameter of the axle flange to be sure that the brake rotor will fit the axle. Axle hang out is the same at 2 3/4 inches.

jmd

iTrader: (4)

The 89-92 rear discs fit a 12-bolt pretty handily.

68-72 A-body housings aren't cheap these days most of the time. Seriously look into a ready-to-bolt-in new assembly if you're serious. The effort to adapt a non-torque arm rear will suck up time and have no benefit in the end over a housing that's ready to go and correct width.

big gear head

Agreed. There are many after market 12 bolt rear end that will bolt in, and they are stronger than the Chevy rear ends.