If the brake parts are different the rear end must be a Spicer from the later '50s or early '60s. There's no telling how it was rigged. I would expect to change everything to get it right.

If you want to keep the open drive shaft look for the rear end and springs from a '55 first series.


"It's just a phase. He'll grow out of it." Mama, 1964

1956 Chevy 1/2-ton 3100
1953 Chevy 6100 "The Yard dog"
1954 GMC Suburban Now with a new proud owner.