The 14-Bolt GM axle is arguably one of the most desirable and sought after in the heavy duty truck and off-road world. They are ultra strong, came in a jillion trucks, and are about as customizable as it gets. They were only available as a rear axle, although there are kits and parts for putting inner axle seals in them and using them up front on your favorite off-road rig as well. One common modification that folks do to the 14 bolt is to “shave” the bottom of the pumpkin for more ground clearance, so in this video with Ian Johnson and the folks at East Coast Gear Supply you’ll see the difference between a stock 14 bolt, a semi-shave unit, and a full shave.
Video Description:
If you are planning a 1-ton swap or upgrading your axles in your Jeep, Buggy, or Toyota, this video is your 14-bolt buyers guide. We compare OE casting, semi shave with a full ring gear, and full shave with shaved gears. You will see why the 14-bolt is simple to set up, how our high-clearance castings are superior to junkyard plate-style shave kits, and when a full shave makes sense.
What you will learn
• 14-bolt setup advantages, including removable pinion support and side adjusters.
• Clearance gains from cast-in semi shave and full shave, and why our full shave casting eliminates the weak point of a plate.
• Oiling and heat considerations, and why we prefer a full ring gear for mixed street and trail use.
• Truss integration, ARB routing, and popular spline options on ECGS builds.
