Quick question-looking for axle compatibility

[Chuck Brown]

Boys, I got a fast question for you that Im hoping you might be able to pull an answer outta yer butts for in the next 24 hours.

Theres a fella with a scrapyard about an hour from my place that's got a well worn J3000 that hes sending to the crusher on Monday, but is willing to pull parts for me tomorrow if I need.

Heres the deal, I've got a well modified '64 J200 with a closed knuckle/5 lug/drums setup (springs mounted outside of rail) that I'd like to upgrade.

The J3000 thats headed for the great beyond is also a 5 lug setup, but he cant tell me if its an open/closed knuckle setup, and can only say that the rig is from '68-'71 and came in with the Buick motor and rhino grill (since sold).

As far as swapping over the axles from the J3000 to the J200, my question is:

A.) Possible? (for width/spring perch placement)
B.) Worthwhile? (is the J3000 also a closed knuckle setup)?

Thanks as always boys, with the crusher coming on Monday, Im possibly racing against the clock here.

Chuck Brown

[Ristow]

it'll be a closed knuckle in the 3000. all the 5 lugs were closed in the FSJ's.

[joe]

Yup all pre 74 year rigs were closed knuckle, also be aware if the J3000 donor has a D53 or D60-2 rear axle(both are semi-floaters). The 60-2 is real hard to get parts for and the D53 impossible.

[Chuck Brown]

Thanks a lot fellas, you saved me a lot of potential anxiety on trying to beat the executioner on this one. I guess I'll call him back and see if maybe he can just save the doors for me.

Chuck Brown

[Rod2]

Yup all pre 74 year rigs were closed knuckle, also be aware if the J3000 donor has a D53 or D60-2 rear axle(both are semi-floaters). The 60-2 is real hard to get parts for and the D53 impossible.

Futhermore, the D53 has a tapered axle and a keyed hub.

About parts; I have recently replaced an axle seal, a pinion seal, and installed an Eaton E-locker in my D60-2 with very little drama.