Ok, I'm not planning on doing this just yet but I have a couple of questions regarding the affected parts that could make this happen.

First, one cool thing is that GM made the 5 spoke aluminum wheel in 5 and 6 lug versions, but are identical. Now onto the parts in question:

Hub/bearing assembly: Obviously the 5 lug hub/bearing assembly is needed but I'm not so sure about the AXLE.

Axle: This is where I'm curious- The 2005 and 2008 have 2 different part numbers using O'Reilly's web site for the driver side front axle.

However according to O'Reilly's site, the 2005 Uplander 3.5 axle fits the 3.5L models AND the 2006 3.9 models, so this axle should fit the 2008 3.9 Uplander since the 2006 3.9 engine and chassis are identical to the 2008.

The only odd thing is that the O'Reilly web site lists the 2005 3.5/2006 3.9 Uplander axle as being 22 3/8" long but the 2008 axle being 22 1/2" long. Both have the same number of splines listed.

So what do you guys think? If the same FWD front axle is listed to fit the 2005 3.5 and 2006 3.5 INCLUDING the 3.9, doesn't it seem logical that all FWD Uplanders share the same front axles?

Thoughts?

Jeremy

 

GM built a 5 bolt 17" rim for an Uplander??

 

2005 Chevrolet Uplander Wheel - Driveshaft & Axle - Action Crash 05 Uplander Wheel - 18321-04029684 - PartsGeek

05 Uplander Wheel 17x6 1 2 Alum 5 Spoke Brushed Opt N85 221744 | eBay

 

And what is to be gained by going with a 5 bolt wheel?

 

Nothing of a practical nature....there are few 6 lug wheel options comparitively to 5 lug and I'm thinking of slightly larger wheel diameters for the massive Uplander wheel openings.

It'll also open up options for wider wheel options which I may need if stickier tires don't solve my tractions issues (in wet and dry conditions).

That's about it lol.

 

Does the 6 lug hub have bigger, better bearings in it ?

 

Considering how many 6 lug uplanders need bearing replacement including mine, they seem to use the same junk material so it's a moot point to me.
But I'm more interested in lowering the rear for reduced body roll and other reasons so the hub swap isn't pressing.

 

I bet a quick email to these guys would clear up your axle/hub questions.
Detroit Axle | Axles, Wheel Bearings, Rack & Pinions, Struts and more!

 

I'll check that out, thanks for the link.
Edit:
I just looked up the axle pn for the 2005 and 2008 and guess what? Same part numbers so my hunch was correct and thanks to papa bear for that link to confirm it!

 

I also have a uplander and looking into bigger wheel options and thought about a swap to 5 from 6 my question is what about the rear wheel hub i see none compatible to swap