Just started looking at shortening a ute diff by 30mm each side to accommodate
13 x 7" -3 offset wheels without flares - (to go under a coupe).
Have got a few ideas but wanted to see if anyone had done it before and if so, would they do it any differently doing it again?
dp

Can you actually take any off the axles ?
They don't taper down after the spline :?

You will probably need bluebird or vanette axles to avoid the issue above as they start longer... They are thicker through the section you will need to cut a new spline. Also be vary wary of brake to chassis clearance.. I had issues with bluebird disc's and skyline calipers after shortening and had to reposition calipers to avoid them hitting the chassis.

There may not be a drama. But do lots and lots of measurement so to check because it's generally gonna cost ya $1500-2000

I saw the issue with the axles so I'll keep a lookout for a bluebird diff for axles and the 3.9 center will be a better option as well.
Yes ,without shifting the spring location the standard drum brake line clearance is an issue - mmmmm - i'll think about that.
I'm going to try the 'cut and join' myself having already made up a diff mounting brace from another project so that just leaves the respline to
$$$ outsource.
Thanks for the idea bounce.
dp

I'm going to be doing the exact same thing with a H165 to fit some 13x7.5 -10 wheels under standard coupe guards too. Will be shortening it by 15mm each side and getting the axles shortened and welded probably. Sticking with the H165 so that I can run a ae86 LSD.

Currently running 13x7 +6 wheels on the rear and it is flush with the guards.

Datto_boy . Axles welded ? Have you or someone else tried and tested this?. I'm interested if so and would they hold up to say 140hp @ the wheels
dp

Other simpler option in my opinion, is to run rims with the right offset.

My old white ute had 14inch rims (7j and 7.5j) with considerable dish and the rims never stuck out of the original fenders.

Cheers

But i would love to see this mod of shortening the h165 diff done ;)
I wouldn't mind running 10j rims at the back