I was wondering if there was a difference in a 73 12-bolt width and an 87 10-bolt width? I'm also assuming that a 12-bolt would be stronger in a towing application? Any help would be great.:)

Originally posted by Bill4rest
I was wondering if there was a difference in a 73 12-bolt width and an 87 10-bolt width? I'm also assuming that a 12-bolt would be stronger in a towing application? Any help would be great.:)

Can't help you with the width, but the 12 bolt is definately stronger than the 10. Go with a 14 and don't look back :D

if a 12 bolt is any stronger, it is minimal.

Originally posted by WD-Offroad
if a 12 bolt is any stronger, it is minimal.


28sp vs 30sp

8.5rg vs 8.875rg

noticable bearing size difference...


naa not to much...

seriously though bill... chevy trucks from 73-87 all look really similar 1980 was the year they changed the grille, and sharpened a few lines up, but were basically the same truck, that 12blt should be the same width or within a 1/2in :D

Thanks I have it in the garage and it already has 4.10's in it so Thats that I suppose, Thanks guy's:)

Originally posted by DSI
28sp vs 30sp :D

Didn't the 10 bolt get 30 spline some time in the '80's?

Originally posted by CJ-Jeeper


Didn't the 10 bolt get 30 spline some time in the '80's?


think so

I believe the 10 bolt got 30 spline shafts at one point. If it is a question of upgrading to a bigger axle the 14 bolt is a pretty cheap and strong unit.

Originally posted by mtlehman
If it is a question of upgrading to a bigger axle the 14 bolt is a pretty cheap and strong unit.

While you are correct in stating that the 14 bolt would be a cheap upgrade, the guy said he already has the 12 bolt sitting in his garage.

It doesn't get any cheaper than that.

Now if the 12 bolt needed any serious work, like a new set of gears, or bearings, then I would go find a 14 bolt. Of course that would also require swapping the front axle hubs to an eight lug pattern.