Got a new Truck (new to me)

George Jets said
This is an interesting conversation on the hub and axle conversion back to the 4.5" bolt pattern?

That 5.5 pattern with the larger 3 1/2 center hole is a real bear to find any wheels for.

So asking this > can a person go to the parts store and just get the 4.5 pattern rotors, as people are saying you don't have to change anything from the 5.5 calipers???

Then easy enough, change the rear axles to 4.5 pattern and need the 4.5 brake drum to go with that. Possibly keeping the same backing plates that my 5.5 pattern 8 1/4 rear end now has???

Any thoughts on this?

Thanks

There are lots of American Racing 15" x 8" wide x 4.5 pattern aluminum rims all over that came off the Ford Rangers and Broncos.

Like those wheels at 4.5" pattern, I would be happy with those to fit the Dodge.

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If you do the front rotor swap, that will be the easy part if what I have read is correct. You could pull a rear wheel and drum, then look to see if there is enough flange on the axle to have drilled to 4.5 bolt pattern and also turn the center register down to what you need for drums that fit an older 9 1/4 with 4.5 bolt pattern. Or is your rearend 8 1/4? Either way, that might get you to where you want it easier than swapping a truck 8 3/4 in. If you prefer to use a truck 8 3/4, I know a member here who has a housing and axles for sale. Keep up the good work. This is a great thread!

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