jimmy50, I've been attempting to do the same on my 53, just ordered a set of modern style tie rod ends for more clearance. Chevs of the 40's has these for 1/2 & 3/4 ton trucks.
Also there was a post on this issue some months back suggesting an 8 lug trailer rim which has back spacing of around 3 1/2". I'm hoping the new tie rod ends will allow the use of some later Chevy 8 lugs I've found, as of now they do not fit.
