Howdy Hi,

Just pulled the rear axle out of my 49 GMC 250 and was looking for some info before I turn any more wrenches. Apologies if this gets wordy or if my info is incorrect:

At this time, I am considering looking for a 3/4 ton axle from the same year and swapping it out. My reasons for doing this are:
-Might be easier to find brake parts?
-I am not sure, but heard somewhere that 3/4 ton rear brakes are smaller 12" drums, which might help with wheel options later on.
-Slightly better rear end ratio than the 5.13 I am running now

If I keep the original axle with original brakes, am I going to be able to find a stock-looking wheel that fits over those drums? I would rather not use the original rims for safety sake.

It has been hard to find any info on this, so I am hoping someone here might shed some light. My goal is a fairly stock truck. I don't need it fast or fancy. Just want an old girl I can putt around in. Thanks in advance!
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