how can i convert my 2wd 8-lug to a 6-lug?
 

I have a 2wd 2000 GMC 2500 NON HD and i want to convert it to a 6-lug (truck does no towing at all) for sake of nicer and LIGHTER wheel options..

as for the front.
Am i able to just swap to a 2wd 1500 Knuckle and hub assembly?
or do i need to also switch balljoints/ control arms?

and the rear.
what model will i need the axles from? (its a 9.5" 14 sf)

Thanks hopefully you guys can help point me in the right direction!

I have never attempted this but you may be able to swap the knuckle with hub in the front as well as the front brake assemblies. I know the control arms are different as well as the ball joints so I don't know if it will be a true bolt up. It may or may not work.


As far as the rear, it's a bit more complicated.

You will either need to swap a whole rear end in or modify the existing housing to accept the smaller 1500 series rear brakes.

You can use Axle shafts from an 88-98 Old body style 4x4 GMT400 platforum with 14 bolt and 6 lug option. They are found on heavy duty 1500 or light duty 2500 series 4x4 trucks from that model series. How ever there is no 6 lug rotor's that will fit those axles and work with the current brakes installed on your rear end.

if you are going with changing rear difs, you may as well go with a silverado SS rear. they're 14B 9.5" SF and they're 6-lug.

front hubs may be a chore.

there are tonnes of nice looking 8-lug wheels though, and they're not really any heavier than they're 6-lug counterpart...in the 2 lb area.

I've personally always loved those trucks with the H2 wheels on them

http://media.motortopia.com/files/18...a/100_1088.jpg

http://www.jayleone.com/truck/MVC-026F.JPG

fast brick and jordan i think you guys have talked me out of it.. especially since the 6 lug parts arent much lighter.
those H2 wheels are by far the nicest 8-lug GM wheels out.. thanks for your insight fellas!

Thought you'd like that...

They look awesome on anything with 8-lugs...seen them on fords dodges and even guys with 2500/3500 vans...

dragging up an old thread,
I've been searching through this looking for info on doing this, I'm looking at buying an 04 2500 light duty 2wd for the donor parts, 6.0l/4l80e and 14 bolt rear, but this truck is way to nice to cut it up, I wouldn't mind turning it into a 1500 short box( its a long box) with all the heavy duty parts in it to handle a big turbo build. does anybody have more insight into this?

Regarding the front spindle and the bearing cartridge, I don't think I'd have any concerns welding up the spindle hole and mounting points and then having the machined to fit the 6 lug bearing cartridge. Only problem is that it wouldn't really be a do it yourself type of job unless you are a tig welder and have access to milling machine.

If anyone would be interested in going that route, don't hesitate to get with me. I have the ability to do this.

The center hub is too large on the 8 lug stuff. You would be wasting your time.

Just swap to a 1500 knuckle and hub and see if the alignment can be corrected.

I had a friend that went the other way to an 8 lug knuckle and used the tubular upper A arms but it was still out a little bit. I think the offset bushings may have corrected it but he was to cheap to try it.