axle swap

[sampsonjoseph]

I have a 73 GMC 2 wheel drive half ton with a 12 bolt rearend and i have a bent axle.  I found an axle but it is in a 10 bolt rearend and it is out of a 79 or 80 they said.  It is also five lug and half ton.  My question is will the axle from the 10 bolt interchange with my 12 bolt. Also I have 4/10s and i would like to get a higher gear ratio.  If the gears in the 10 bolt are higher geared will that also fit in my 12 bolt rearend.

[fitz]

Parts between then 12 bolt and the 10 bolt will not interchange. You could just install the complete 10 bolt rear end in place of your 12 bolt (you would need a conversion u joint). As far mixing and matching parts, it's a no go.

[Blazin]

If you go with the whole ten bolt you can use your backing plates and brakes. Later on you won't have to by 79 or 80 rear brakes for a 73 truck. 

[sampsonjoseph]

thank you.  you just saved me a headache and some money.