A 1/2 ton axle will fit your truck fine. You will have to use 1/2" dia. u-bolts rather than the 9/16" u-bolts that are on your 3/4 ton now.

You can also upgrade your stock front brakes by going with a Bendix setup from a '53 to '59 3/4 or one ton truck.



Steve

'49 3800
'52 3600
'57 3100