69 trailing arm

[Greg L.]

I should replace my R/H trailing arm on my 69 and I would like to know which years are identical to the 69. I realize that other years will work but want to be sure that my replacement is of the same configuration as the original.

I will also need a half shaft and I think that 63-74 are the same small diameter...correct?

Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: 69 trailing arm

Greg-----

The trailing arms used in PRODUCTION on the trailing arm assemblies of 1965-74 Corvettes were identical. Later trailing arms are virtually identical, too.

The last available GM trailing arms, GM #14035663 (now discontinued) and GM #14035664 (still available), are also virtually identical to the originals. These arms were used in PRODUCTION for 1982 Corvettes and are SERVICE for all 1965-82 Corvettes. They differed from the originals only with respect to the fact that there are 4 small holes around the cirfumference of the large hole on the inner side. These holes were for attachment of the plastic u-joint shield used on 1982 models. They can easily be filled and painted over if they bother one. There may also be a very minor difference with respect to the parking brake cable brackets and/or location. I think that this difference, if any, is virtually indiscernable.

The currently available reproduction trailing arms are, I believe, identical to the last GM SERVICE arms. I think that they are manufactured by the same original supplier to GM. The arms look to be made from identical tooling. They may not have the holes I described above, though.

Keep in mind that many of the used arms out there may suffer from "hidden problems". Corrosion is one of these "hidden problems" and such corrosion often renders the arms "terminal". Slight and non-apparent damage from collisons can be another problem. To me, NEW arms are the only way to go if you need to replace them. They're the only things that I would use, anyway.

[Greg L.]

Re: 69 trailing arm

As always, thanks for your info Joe.

My first choice for replacement parts is almost always with original parts but if the repros are this good then maybe I'll consider that route. If I decide to get a used original could you suggest a reputable source so that I know I'll get a decent part? Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: 69 trailing arm

Greg----

Bair's or Pat Ikerd.

[Greg L.]

Thanks Joe *NM*