C3 spindles in C2

[Robert Wingerter]

Can I use C3 front spindles on my '63?

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

Robert-----

Only if you convert to disc brakes. Even then, they will not work exactly correctly, but I believe they are usable.

[Michael M.]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

Robert, As Joe says there is some difference. 69 and up C3 have a larger spindle area where the bearings ride thus use bearings with a larger ID. It is easy to change to Disc brakes by just going to the later models 1965 thru 1968 are the same small dia disc brakes and 1969 up have the larger dia spindles. Others will probably have more information.

[Michael M.]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

Yes, the 65-68 have the same small bearings but the steering arms (and hence the holes in the spindles) for the '68s have larger mounting holes. This makes 68 unique in this respect. You should try and stick to 65-67 spindles in my opinion, it will make matching the other parts easier.

[Robert Wingerter]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

I bought a set a '68 spindles on ebay last night after this post. There is nothing left real on the '63, so I'm not worried about originality. Is there a reason why I can't drill out the '63 steering arm to accept 1/2 bolts and go? I have a mill, so the cut would be precise.
I think its ridiculous to pay $1400 for a front disc brake conversion when I can pice one together for less than $600.

Thanks for the info - it helped me make the bid!

[Michael M.]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

Robert, I had the same dilemma when I recently refurbished the front suspension on my '68. I had a 65-67 front right spindle on my car. I purchased a new 68 steering arm and toyed with drilling out the spindle holes to accept the bigger bolts but I was not confident I could drill it accurately as I only have a hand drill. I elected to buy a 68 spindle in a partial trade for the 67 spindle and steering arm.

To directly answer your question, if there is enough meat to accommodate the the larger hole without compromising the integrity of the part and you have the tools to drill it precisely, I would say go ahead and do it.

[William Holder]

Re: C3 spindles in C2

Hello,
I belive that the spidles on Impala/biscane 60-67 drum brake would probably work. I say this because I ended up going to a 68 drum brake impala to get a spindle for my 68 vette. I had to mill off the pad where the backing plate mounts because it is thicker on Drum brake than Disk but you should not have that problem. I looked at my interchange manual but it only goes back to 65 so I am not sure. You will still have the difference in the steering arm bolt holes depending on the year you get. Maybe you could call a junkyard that has an interchange and ask them. Or maybe Joe Lucia or someone else here knows?
Hope this helps
Bill