Converting a 6-lug ’67-’71 Chevy to a 5-lug | C10 TECH

Kevin Whipps . April 19, 2019 . HEADLINE

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6-lug ’67-’71 Chevy to a 5-lug Conversion Guide

If you went out looking for rims 20 years ago, you would’ve had a hard time finding six-lug wheels. Sure, they existed, but the offsets were weird, and the styles often ran secondary to their more popular five-lug cousins. Then Chevy came out with a six-lug truck in 1999 and the game changed. But there are still those of us that prefer five-lug wheels because we want a clean five-spoke design. And if you’re one of those folks and you have a 1967-1971 Chevy C-10, then swapping over gives you another advantage: disc brakes.

Drum brakes suck. If you want to upgrade to a more modern system and get a five-on-five bolt pattern in the process, then you’re in luck: CPP has a kit to make your dreams come true. You can convert all four wheels to disc brakes if you like, or just keep the rears drum and convert the fronts to discs—your call.

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In this case, the victim was a 1969 C-10 that was undergoing a short bed conversion. The owner wanted to get into some nicer wheels than he was finding. Plus, he knew that disc brakes are the safer choice. He still wanted drums out back, but if you want discs then know that CPP makes a kit for you, too.

SOURCES

Classic Performance Products
378 E Orangethorpe Ave.
Placentia, CA 92870
ClassicPerform.com
714-522-2000

Crown Suspension
Crownsuspension.com
714-671-9500

Metalox Fabrication
8615 w Kelton Lane
Suite 305
Peoria AZ 85382
@metaloxfab
623-308-1170

The truck began life as a 1969 long bed, complete with heated coils to give it that classy stance. Needless to say, it was ready for an upgrade.

The CPP kit comes with everything you need to convert the truck to a five-lug, and the Crown Suspension kit will lower the truck 4/6. Not pictured are the new CPP front brake rotors and calipers.

The bed was already off of the truck since it was under the knife, so the crew at Metalox Fabrication got the truck on jack stands and removed the rear wheels.

The rear coils were heated and looked like limp noodles, so after they cut it out of the pocket, they unbolted the remnants from the trailing arms and frame.

The panhard bar and rear shocks came next.

After putting a drain pan underneath the axle, Kyle from Metalox unbolted the differential cover and let the ancient fluid empty out.

Once the adjuster was backed off with a flathead screwdriver, Cameron from Metalox pulled the drums off of the axle.

A pin holds the axles in place inside the differential, and it’s locked in with a bolt. They unbolted that bolt and slide the pin out being careful not to shift the spider gears inside.

Once the guys pushed the axles shafts in toward the differential on both sides they could remove the c-clips. See those grooves in the middle? That’s where the c-clips sit.

The c-clips themselves are pretty straightforward. You might want to use a magnet or a pick tool to get them out.

The axles then slide right out easily. This is a good time to replace your axle bearings and seals if you’re doing maintenance anyways.

The new five-lug axles slide in just like the old ones. You’ll want to lube them first to ensure they don’t get hung up.

With the c-clips reinstalled, the pin can be bolted back in place. Then they bolted up the differential cover and filled it with fluid.

The new drums slide right in place, and just like that, the rear end now has five lugs.

Kyle decided to make his own lowering blocks, and whipped up a set of 2-inchers to mate up with the new lowering springs.

The rear springs bolted in place just like factory, but up top they mated to the new notch, which came with mounting holes all ready to go.

They then installed the new track bar from CPP and the Crown shocks to button up the rear end.

The stock front suspension was pretty rough. Almost 40 years of dirt and grease were caked on everything, and the ball joints weren’t doing much better, either.

The tie rods came off first so that the spindle could be spun easily and give the guys more access to the ball joint nuts.

The shocks and brake line were next. The CPP kit comes with new brake lines, and the old rubber ones were pretty worn out.

After putting a jack under the lower control arm to support it, Kyle moved on to the lower ball joint, and although it put up a fight, it eventually broke free.

With the spring out of the way, they spun the spindle 180 degrees to give them easy access to the upper control arm ball joint.

The upper and lower control arms went in for a steam bath and came back beautiful. Once they installed new ball joints and bushings, they had one thing left to do: Cut off the bump stop mount on the lower control arm.

Kyle installed the control arms next and put in the new springs and shocks. The steering was rebuilt too, ensuring that the truck would handle well when all was said and done.

The CPP kit comes with new spindles specially made to hold the new brake calipers and five-lug rotors. They got bolted up next.

The brackets for the calipers bolt into the backside of the spindle using the provided hardware.

Before the rotors could be installed, new bearings and seals were put in place.

Installing the rotors took just a minute, then the calipers were bolted up.

The finishing touch was the new brake lines, and they were installed with new copper washers.

Now a new set of sexy 20-inch US Mags Ramblers were bolted up to the truck, completing the look. Disc brakes and five lugs? It’s a perfect combo.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the different types of wheels available for the Chevy C10 from 1960-1987?

Exploring Wheels for the 1960-1987 Chevy C10

When updating your Chevy C10, whether you’re aiming for a classic restoration or a restomod project, choosing the right wheels can make a significant difference. Let’s delve into the various types of wheels available for your C10 from 1960 to 1987.

Classic Chrome Wheels

Chrome wheels are a timeless choice that can give your C10 a polished, factory-fresh appearance. While older chrome may pit and dull over the years, a new set will restore that vintage shine, enhancing the truck’s classic appeal. Chrome wheels not only look stunning but also capture the essence of a bygone era.

Durable Steel Wheels

For those looking to maintain an authentic period-correct look, steel wheels (often referred to as “steelies”) are a fantastic option. These wheels are built to last, much like the original wheels that came with your Chevy. The durability of steel wheels ensures they can handle the rigors of daily driving while preserving the vintage aesthetic of your C10.

Racing and Performance Wheels

If you’re transforming your C10 into a drag truck or a performance beast, investing in racing wheels is essential. These wheels are designed to support high speeds and intense driving conditions. Racing wheels often come in a variety of finishes and styles, allowing them to blend seamlessly with the restomod look while providing the performance boost needed for the track.

Modern Alloy Wheels

Alloy wheels offer a modern take on wheel design, providing a blend of style and performance. These wheels are typically lighter than steel and can help improve your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Available in various finishes and styles, alloy wheels can give your C10 a contemporary edge without compromising its classic roots.

Wheel Sizes

Choosing the right size for your wheels is crucial for both aesthetics and performance. Here are the common sizes you might consider for your Chevy C10:

15″ Wheels
16″ Wheels
17″ Wheels
18″ Wheels
20″ Wheels
22″ Wheels

Finishing Touches

Don’t forget to complete your wheel setup with the right accessories. Consider adding:

Lug Nuts: Ensure your wheels are securely fastened and complement the overall look.
Trim Rings: These can add an extra touch of style and finish to your wheels.

By exploring these different types of wheels for your Chevy C10, you can find the perfect set to match your restoration or modification project, ensuring your truck looks and performs its best.

How can new racing wheels and drag slicks enhance the performance of a C10 on the track?

New Racing Wheels and Drag Slicks Enhance the Performance of a C10 on the Track:

Upgrading to new racing wheels and drag slicks can significantly boost the performance of your C10 on the track. Here’s how:

Improved Traction: Drag slicks are specifically designed to maximize grip on the racing surface. Unlike regular tires, slicks have a wider contact area and softer rubber compound. This means better traction and reduced wheel spin, allowing your C10 to launch faster and more aggressively off the line.
Enhanced Handling: Racing wheels often feature a lighter and stronger construction compared to stock wheels. They reduce unsprung weight, which improves the vehicle’s handling and responsiveness. You’ll notice sharper turns and better control, essential for maneuvering through tight corners on the track.
Aesthetic Appeal: While performance is key, let’s not forget the visual upgrade. Racing wheels can give your C10 a sleek, aggressive look that makes a bold statement. Many retain a classic design, preserving the restomod aesthetic that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Optimized Aerodynamics: High-quality racing wheels are engineered to minimize aerodynamic drag. Their design improves airflow around the vehicle, contributing to higher speeds and more stable driving at high velocities. This is particularly important in competitive racing environments.
Sturdiness and Durability: The track puts immense stress on vehicles; therefore, durability is crucial. Racing wheels constructed from materials like forged aluminum offer unparalleled strength and resilience, withstanding the rigors of high-speed racing and frequent braking.

Key Benefits at a Glance

Maximum Grip: Drag slicks increase traction for better launches.
Better Handling: Lighter wheels contribute to improved control and maneuverability.
Enhanced Durability: High-strength materials ensure longevity under racing conditions.
Visual Appeal: Aesthetic boost without sacrificing the classic look.
Aerodynamic Efficiency: Reduced drag for higher potential speeds.

Upgrade your C10 with the right set of racing wheels and drag slicks, and experience a transformed track performance that combines speed, control, and style.

How can you shop for wheels by size for a Chevy C10?

Shop for Wheels by Size for Your Chevy C10

Finding the right wheels for your Chevy C10 can be straightforward when you know the size you need. Here’s how to shop by wheel size:

Step-by-Step Guide

Identify Your Required Wheel Size: Know the specific size of the wheels needed for your Chevy C10. Common sizes include 15″, 16″, 17″, 18″, 20″, and 22″.
Search by Wheel Dimension: Many online stores allow you to filter products by wheel size. For instance:
- 15-inch Wheels: Perfect for maintaining a classic look.
- 16-inch Wheels: Provides a balance between tradition and modernity.
- 17-inch Wheels: Offers improved handling and a sportier aesthetic.
- 18-inch Wheels: Gives a bold appearance with enhanced performance.
- 20-inch Wheels: Ideal for those seeking an aggressive look.
- 22-inch Wheels: Makes a statement with a massive presence on the road.
Filter Results: Once you select the desired wheel size, you can typically filter the results further by material, finish, and bolt pattern. This ensures compatibility with your Chevy C10 and meets your style preferences.

Types of Wheels Available

Steel Wheels: Cost-effective and durable.
Alloy Wheels: Lightweight and better for performance.
Chrome Wheels: High-gloss finish for a stylish look.
Painted Wheels: Available in various colors to match or contrast with your vehicle.

Additional Tips

Read Reviews: Get insights from other Chevy C10 owners.
Check Return Policies: Ensure you can return or exchange the wheels if they do not fit perfectly.
Compare Prices: Shop around across different retailers to find the best deals.

By following these steps, you can easily shop for the perfect wheels by size for your Chevy C10, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and optimal performance.

What are some options for improving the performance and appearance of Chevy C10 wheels and tires?

If you’re giving your C10 a classic restoration or building a restomod drag truck, there are plenty of options to elevate both performance and appearance.

Classic Restoration: Chrome wheels tend to pit and lose their shine over time. Keep the classic style of your C10 alive by opting for a new set of chrome wheels. With the vintage appeal of chrome, your pickup will look as good as the day it rolled out of the factory. Steelies also offer vintage looks and are as durable as your Chevy’s first wheels were.
Restomod Drag Truck: The C10 has proven its drag truck potential, but not with the original wheels and tires! Get a new set of racing wheels and drag slicks to show off on the track. Many racing wheels are designed to preserve the restomod look while significantly boosting performance.

When choosing wheels, don’t forget to consider reputable brands that specialize in classic or performance-oriented designs. Brands like Wheel Vintiques and American Legend offer a range of options that can cater to both your aesthetic and functional needs.

By combining these various upgrades, you can create a customized look that not only honors the classic appeal of the C10 but also enhances its performance on the road or track. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or tearing up the drag strip, the right wheels and tires can make all the difference.

What types of wheel-related products can be purchased for a Chevy C10?

If you want to upgrade to a more modern system and get a five-on-five bolt pattern in the process, then you’re in luck: CPP has a kit to make your dreams come true. You can convert all four wheels to disc brakes if you like, or just keep the rears drum and convert the fronts to discs—your call.

The CPP kit comes with everything you need to convert the truck to a five-lug, and the Crown Suspension kit will lower the truck 4/6.

CPP kit comes with new brake lines, and the old rubber ones were pretty worn out.

The CPP kit comes with new spindles specially made to hold the new brake calipers and five-lug rotors.

Whether you’re aiming for a classic restoration or a high-performance restomod, upgrading the wheels and tires on your Chevy C10 is a must.

Classic and Vintage Options

Chrome Wheels: Keep the classic style of your C10 with a new set of chrome wheels. Chrome tends to pit and lose its shine over time, but fresh chrome wheels will make your pickup look as good as new.
Steelies: For a vintage look that matches the durability of your Chevy’s original wheels, steelies are an excellent choice. Brands like Wheel Vintiques and American Legend offer great options for classic C10 wheels.

Performance and Racing

Racing Wheels and Drag Slicks: The C10 has proven its potential as a drag truck, but not with the original wheels and tires. Equip your ride with a new set of racing wheels and drag slicks to dominate the track. Many racing wheels are designed to preserve the restomod look.

Customization and Accessories

Wheel Sizes: Already know what size wheel you need for your C10? Shop by specific wheel sizes:
- 15″
- 16″
- 17″
- 18″
- 20″
- 22″
Accessories: No matter what wheel you prefer, top them off with a great set of lug nuts or trim rings for that finishing touch.

Upgrading the wheels and tires on your Chevy C10 not only boosts its performance but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. Whether you go for classic chrome, durable steelies, or performance-oriented racing wheels, there’s a perfect option for every C10 enthusiast.