can I use new model (90s) U-bolts on my 82 K5?

[vortec]

The good news is that GM seems to already know that this is an issue, since they only charge $1.70 each for new bolts.

This is from a post in the NBS section of the forum about u-bolts rusting in half. I've always thought that sticking the bolts on upside down like that is moronic because they get caught on things, but this is even worse. I know my 94 c1500 is like that, Dodge rams are like that, and ford probably did it to the F-Series

Here's my question: If GM really is selling new U-bolts for under $2 apiece, could i get a set and use them on my 82 blazer? I'm at work (and working hard ) so I can't go measure my axle tubes, but if the 90s 10 bolts are the same size as the 80s, i could just cut my old u-bolts off the k5 when I install my lift. I was planning on reusing them for a while (I know, I know). The only bolt that I wouldn't expect to interchange would be the longer one that goes around the end of the pumpkin on the front d-shaft.

Heck, at that price, maybe I'll buy them just because. Use them for paper weights or something.

 

[dyeager535]

I don't believe the 8.5" axle tubes changed diameters. At least up until 1991, shouldn't really matter, if they are interchangeable, telling them you have a 1982 K5 will net you the same bolts.

Now, I think the "replacement" to the 8.5" is the 8.6", I know the two housings are at least visually different, but no idea if any axle tube changes occurred at the same time. No idea when that newer axle started being used either.

One other thing I found in my 1991 service manual the other day. Some of the R/V/P vehicles had the inverted U-bolts. The torque specs were HIGHER on that style than the ones with the threads up. No idea why.