GM FAQ


	pathfinder4x4vans@gmail.com


	Why does my van have a Ford front axle? The front axle housing was custom built to Pathfinders specifications. The center housing of the axle is on the left side to take advantage of the motor being offset to the right. That is why the axle appears to be of Ford origin. The wheel ends have always been GM.


	How can I lift my K-van? As well as having an upgraded stock replacement spring, We also offer a spring that is approx. 2 inches higher than the stock Pathfinder K-van lift. It can be installed without any fabrication to the frame or steering. To level the van, you my need to add-a-leaf or install taller lift blocks in the rear.

	How can I convert my own GM van using p/u parts? We have known many individuals who have converted their vans using p/u parts. When using a GM front axle housing with right hand offset, you need to lift the van higher than a stock K-van, this will be necessary for clearance between the engine oil pan and the front diff. All the necessary components are available from Pathfinder 4wd Van Accessories. Such as spring hangers and mounts, shackles, springs, steering arm, drag link and engine cross member and rear lift blocks etc. You will also need to use steering knuckles that are cast flat on top. This will allow you to install a special steering arm, and cross steer from the 2wd center link to the right side steering knuckle.

What is a flat top steering knuckle?

In order to install crossover steering on your van, you need flat top steering knuckles. They come on late 70’s GM 4x4 axles. The GM 10 bolt axle 1980 and up have a steering knuckle which will not accomodate a steering arm. The flat top knuckles will fit both Dana 44 and GM 10 bolt axle housings. If you are converting a van with 3.42 gears, you will need to install flat top knuckles on a 10 bolt axle housing since 3.42 gear sets are not available for Dana 44 axles.




		Dana 44 knuckle




		GM 10 bolts knuckle

How can I center my steering wheel?

Pathfinder drag links consist of two right hand threaded ends. One of these ends is welded to the adjusting sleeve, leaving one end adjustable. In order to make adjustments, one must remove the adjustable end from its taper and screw the end in or out one full revolution. Of coarse, if you need something in between, you can't have it. The new replacement drag links are fully adjustable with the drag link ends being left and right hand thread.


	How can I change my G10, G20's rear wheel pattern from five to six lug? Pathfinder Chevrolet G10, G20 and GMC 1500, 250, Astro/Safari series vans have 6 on 5-1/2 wheel lug pattern on the front axle and 5 on 5.0 on the rear axle, with a spare rim that was manufactured with both lug patterns. Remove the rear axle shafts and have the flanges redrilled to except the 6 on 5-1/2 wheel pattern. One of the original stud holes will need to be plug welded because one of the new and one of the old stud holes will overlap. The brake drum can be redrilled as well. A good 4wd or speed shop can perform this modification for a reasonable cost. Replace all the wheel studs. Refer to a shop manual for the proper differential tear down procedures.

		Questions on parts or need to place an order? Call Gordon @ 801-915-1402 anytime from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM mountain time. Monday-Saturday (Sunday is OK if you have no other time to call )