Dodge 2WD 5 x 5-1/2 pattern ???

[dodgedartgt]

Can someone please confirm for me what year the Dodge D-series and Ramcharger started offering the larger (big Ford) 5-1/2" pattern ?

My understanding is there were 3300 lb and 3600 lb front end ratings, the heavier having the larger pattern.

Consequently, IF it was early enough (pre'75?), then there MAY have been an 8-3/4" rear housing and axles in 5-1/2 pattern.

PLEASE

The 2wd Dakota (and MANY passenger vehicles and trucks back to 1972) will accept the full size, heavy truck rotors, provided you have the accompanying caliper adapter.

That said, the project I'm working on NEEDS (I believe) the longest 8-3/4" housing and shafts.

Thnx in advance,
dodgedartgt
aka Mikey

 

[captainchrysler]

Starting in 1980 4WD changed to the larger 5 on 5.5 pattern, 2WD stayed with 5 on 4.5 through the 1984 model year. For 85 all pickups and vans had the larger pattern. Axel weight rating had nothing to do with it.

 

[volaredon]

I had heard that there were some 8-3/4 made with either 5 on 5 or 5 on 5-1/2 pattern but have never seen one. The last 8-3/4 was made in 1974 though.

 

[captainchrysler]

You are correct. the 72-4 1/2 ton 4X4 were the larger pattern (5 on 5.5) and 8 3/4 was the standard rear axle. And most of those originally had 16 wheels too. I sold the rear I had from a 74 W100 but still have the front.