Wheel stud frustration... I need hive knowledge!

[87ProjectGMC]

Ok, here goes. I promise I've searched, maybe I can't read........

1987 V1500 GMC. 6 lug axles.

Took the 12 bolt out to sand paint clean etc. Pulled the axles to work on wheel studs. I want longer, stronger for possible aluminum rims.

I've searched threads about knurl, length and such. What I thought I needed was an

ARP 100-7701 7/16×20 knurl- .486

OR

Napa NOE 641-1268 7/16×20 knurl .487

Is this correct?

Tire store said the NAPA studs wouldn't press in.

I'd love a 14 bolt, but so far, everyone wants a mint for them. And I will not be destroying this truck. 6.0/4L80 installed and running. May tow a pop up camper or ATV's but that's about it.

Waiting on Rear disc brake kit until this is resolved.

Also willing to upgrade to 1/2 wheel studs. Give me a part # and drill bit size. I'll find a machine shop in Birmingham to do it. Shop recommendations also accepted.

Really frustrated!!!!!

Ryan

 

[YOUNGBLOOD13]

You should be able to snag a later model 14 bolt for $200. It's the Dana 60 front that costs so much. There are thousands of 3/4 ton trucks in the boneyards. They will likely be disc brake too. Hell, the ARP extra length 1/2 or 5/8 wheelstuds will be close to a hundred bucks. Then paying for install? Find a pick n pull yard.

 

[nvrenuf]

Yeah, the u-pull-it here in Mobile charges about $75 for an axle, gotta work for it though. lol

 

[Blue85]

Unfortunately the search engine here won't let you use something like "7/16", but you might be able to do it with google (specifying this site). Here's an old discussion. Somebody needs to figure out a few stud swap options and make a tech article.

https://ck5.com/forums/threads/did-10-bolts-ever-come-w-metric-studs.289644/

 

[obijuank5]

If I had to guess a good application for a suitable 1/2" stud would be 79 bronco . Semi float rear with slip on drums and the same hub assembly system as the gm fronts.
Full size jeeps, cj, dodge half tons, international even. I have no idea why gm used such small studs.

 

[dyeager535]

There was only one front wheel stud in 1/2" I ever found that was made the same way the front 7/16" studs were, and from what I've seen those were discontinued by Dorman. It was a pretty rare application, late 60s Dodge car IIRC. I've heard people have used studs that bite into the rotor and not the hub, but I figured GM knew best. At this point, dont think you have a choice.

 

[87ProjectGMC]

I went back to stock. Maybe one day... a 14 bolt