I am going to do a 6 six lug axle shaft conversion on my friends 8 lug semi float. I read up on all whats needed to be done and know that the 6 lug shafts are a little longer. I know some people don't bother with properly aligning the wheel bearings on the axle shaft again and have no issues, but for peace of mind I want to go ahead and shim the bearings. Anyone know quick off hand what stores carry a variety of shims? Thanks guys!
CK5
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14B SF Wheel Bearing Shims
- Thread starter msb350
- Start date
The problem isn't with the wheel bearings as they ride directly on the shaft. The problem is with the brakes lining up properly, you'll have to shim the backing plates to get the brake shoes to sit in the drums properly or convert to disc brakes.
There are severaly different widths of the 8 lug semi floater. If you have the old body style (pre '88) you'll only have to shim the backing plates around a 1/2 inch and probably won't cause any problems if done correctly. If it's a newer body style housing then chances are the 6 lug shafts are going to be 1-2 inches too long which will not work.
Bottom line is: Compare the 8 lug to the 6 lug shafts and as long as they are within a half of an inch (or so) then it'll be safe to swap. Any more is just asking for problems.
There are severaly different widths of the 8 lug semi floater. If you have the old body style (pre '88) you'll only have to shim the backing plates around a 1/2 inch and probably won't cause any problems if done correctly. If it's a newer body style housing then chances are the 6 lug shafts are going to be 1-2 inches too long which will not work.
Bottom line is: Compare the 8 lug to the 6 lug shafts and as long as they are within a half of an inch (or so) then it'll be safe to swap. Any more is just asking for problems.
