This thread is for the purpose of providing answers to FAQ on this effective yet seldom done upgrade.
The 5 lug swap is a very controversial topic. To many it is rather unnessesary because in almost every application, the stock 4 lug hubs are more than sufficient.
The extra strength 5 lug hubs have over the 4 lug hubs is negligiable. All the major brake swaps (300zx, Q45 etc.) can be completed simply by redrilling the rotors to the proper 4x114.3 bolt patern.
However, the 5 lug conversion opens up whole new world of wheel choices. The stock rims from the Skyline, 300zx, S14 (5 lug) and S15 among others will bolt right on. As well, for those in the show scene, the 5 lug conversion is bound to score you some extra points with the judges and well-deserved respect on the streets.
Below is a list of parts that will be need to convert your plain old S13 240sx 4 lug suspension to the 5 lug suspension found on the S14 (5 lug) and 300zx:
FRONT:
Aftermarket lower ball joints (Moog, etc) has to be pressed in into s13 arms
S14 front spindles/steering knuckles
S14 5 lug front hubs
REAR:
S14 5 lug/NA 300zx rear hubs
NOTE: When converting the 4 bolt S14 to 5 bolt S14, all that is needed are the front and rear 5 bolt hubs.
I hope that the above info is complete and correct, however, if you have something to add or correct, please feel free to do so.
When changing the spindle in the rear to z32, you will notice that the strut mount on the spindle is different. You will need new struts to work with that setup. There may also be some issues with the parking brake.
The reason why people upgrade to z32 spindles in the back, is because of the weight difference. I believe u save 7lbs on each side.
i guess you guys didn’t mention that 5 bolt rotors are needed for the swap as well
it is assumed that when you’re doing 5 lug swap, u will be doing z32 brake conversion as well. Otherwise 4 bolt rotors can be redrilled.
Good point. But who said anything about brakes? The writeup was for the “5 lug conversion.” 8)
good idea! let’s run our cars with 5 bolt convo’s and no rotors!
But you don’t need 5 bolt rotors to do the 5 lug conversion.
Since you persist, if you plan on driving your car after the conversion, it may be a good idea to get some rotors and brake pads for either a 5 lug S14 or 300zx (with the corresponding hardware).
If there is a problem with this, please save it for the 300zx Brake Swap faq.
Thank you.