Here is one more option. In my 46 1/2 ton I swapped out the center pumpkin for one from an open driveline 56 1/2 ton. I then welded in new solid type spring perches. It worked good for me because I kept my old housing and the e-brake stayed. I also kept 6 lug all around. The pumpkin has 3:38 gears. I'm running a 283 with a TH350 and it has held up fine so far.
