first48,
I'm starting the 3.55 conversion on my '52 1/2 ton pickup today. I bought the Patrick's gear set and installation kit. The kit contains all the "wear" parts that would normally be changed in a rebuild, including bearings. If you've never rebuilt it before, it probably needs a good look after 64 years. I have two rear ends. The first had bad differential side gears, differential cage, lightly scored axle halves, and the hooks to attach the spring saddles were badly rusted. The second rear had badly scored axle halves. I'm installing 99187 Speedi-sleeves (from NAPA) on the half shafts to repair them. I'll end up with a good unit by combining them. I'm glad that I took the time to do this stuff.
Dave Evans
52_3100
