3) New custom rear end has been ordered (3.73)
Again, I don't plan on mutilating my truck. This rear end will mount up to the same leaf springs. The perches will remain 42" center to center to match the existing setup. I just need to weld the perches on my rear end in the correct angle. I will still get to use my 8 lug wheels.
I will need a new drive shaft to connect the two... Once that is done, we are good to go. The best part is, I will be able to do brake jobs very easily since the parts are all from a late 60's Chevy rear end.
The Tech Tip that John Milliman mentioned
Advance Design (1947.2 — 1955.1) 3/4 or 1-ton Truck Rear Axle Ring and Pinion Swap! Swaps the 4.57:1 ratio with a 4.10, your truck keeps its complete axle housing and original axles -- just the center carrier section swaps out.
There might also be a higher speed Ring and Pinion Swap for your axle out there.
This swap is a lot more cost effective, to be able to drive at a higher speed, than changing out the entire axle housing and transmission.
