I grenaded my rearend in my 94 k1500 and im looking at either a 12 bolt from a 85 k5 blazer or a 14 bolt from a truck. does anyone know which one would be better for towing and all-around use. the 12 bolt is geared properly already and the 14 bolt needs re-geared to my truck but trying to figure out which one is better to use.

any help is much appreciated.

 

12 bolt would be cheaper since it's geared properly... 14 bolt would be better overall. It's more about gearing anyway when it comes to towing, for the most part.

 

since 12 bolt is already geared right, and if it's in good shape, go with it. 14 bolt heavier duty, but gear swap gonna cost ya. plus, the 14 bolt is an 8 lug axle, your truck is a 6 lug. 12 bolt from '85 should be 6 bolt as well, and strong enough to handle towing.

 

actually this 14 bolt is a heavy duty half-ton/light 3/4 ton axle and it's 6 lug, so the lug amount isnt a problem and im just wondering if they built the 12 bolt better than the 14 bolt. I can re-gear it fairly easily.(it would end up getting re-geared anyway at some point cause i tow so much i dont want any problems)

 

I'd go for the SF 14 Bolt in that case, if your regearing anyways... Drop the front driveshaft though, In my opinion.

 

why would i drop the driveshaft? not going to run the different gears together if thats what your wondering