1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Axle swap

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 01-15-18, 05:42 PM
  #1  
Full Member

Thread Starter
 
meifert's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2014
Location: Buford, GA
Posts: 70
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Axle swap

When swapping a GS axle for a GSL axle is anything else besides the axle needed?
Old 01-15-18, 05:59 PM
  #2  
Out In the Barn


iTrader: (9)
 
KansasCityREPU's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: KC
Posts: 6,055
Received 1,015 Likes on 801 Posts
The GS is drum, the GSL is disc. You will also need all the brake components along with the GSL rear diff brake lines/rear diff brake line block and e-brake lines that go from the caliper to the frame rail. New axle seals would also be needed. The axles also need to be the same model years (1984/1985) or (1981-1983). Depending on the month built, the 1983 can be pre 1983 style or 1984/1985 style.
Old 01-15-18, 06:00 PM
  #3  
Senior Member

iTrader: (4)
 
tommyeflight89's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Toronto Canada
Posts: 696
Received 85 Likes on 60 Posts
There are a few threads and websites devoted to this, search a bit will find some helpful stuff.

-Rebuild it with new seals, bearings etc. Easy now rather than later.
-Pay attention to driveshaft flange. Flange changed in 83.
-Will require a new brake line going from the hard line on the body to the adapter on the axle.
-Brake master cylinder and proportioning valve from a rear disc equipped FB. This is very important
-E brake cables (back half) will be required.

I also have found GSL or GSL-SE calipers very hard to find. Keep that in mind.

-Edit see above hahaha.
Old 01-15-18, 06:25 PM
  #4  
Full Member

Thread Starter
 
meifert's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2014
Location: Buford, GA
Posts: 70
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
I am using my GSL as a donor due to major rust basically everywhere. Both cars are 85s

Last edited by meifert; 01-15-18 at 06:41 PM.
Old 01-15-18, 07:13 PM
  #5  
Out In the Barn


iTrader: (9)
 
KansasCityREPU's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: KC
Posts: 6,055
Received 1,015 Likes on 801 Posts
In that case, just swap out the entire rearend with LSD.
Old 01-16-18, 08:41 AM
  #6  
Damn, it did start!

 
Richard Miller's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: washington
Posts: 2,678
Received 365 Likes on 226 Posts
I seem to recall being able to swap driveshaft flanges, or am I still suffering from that anvil that was dropped on my head from a zepplin?
Old 01-16-18, 01:29 PM
  #7  
Out In the Barn


iTrader: (9)
 
KansasCityREPU's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: KC
Posts: 6,055
Received 1,015 Likes on 801 Posts
Originally Posted by Richard Miller
I seem to recall being able to swap driveshaft flanges, or am I still suffering from that anvil that was dropped on my head from a zepplin?
The flange swap is only needed if moving between 1984/1985 and earlier years.
Old 01-26-18, 09:58 AM
  #8  
Always Wanting to Learn

iTrader: (49)
 
DreamInRotary's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Cambridge, Minnesota
Posts: 3,078
Received 42 Likes on 40 Posts
Process:
1. Take GSL end out of parts car.
2. Put GSL end in good car.
3. Swap brake proportioning valves in the good car.
4. Drive with LSD and be much happier.
Old 01-26-18, 10:13 AM
  #9  
Full Member

Thread Starter
 
meifert's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2014
Location: Buford, GA
Posts: 70
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
Lucky for me the previous owner already did it all...anyone in Georgia need a GSL axle?
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
SaturnHKS
1st Generation Specific (1979-1985)
6
10-28-11 03:15 PM
Mr_Miles
1st Generation Specific (1979-1985)
2
08-07-11 11:39 AM
K-Tune
1st Generation Specific (1979-1985)
5
10-09-05 04:09 PM



Quick Reply: Axle swap



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:32 AM.