I have a 51 half ton with a stock rear. I plan to install a Tremec 5 speed behind a 1957 235 motor. I need help with recommendations for a rear. My target would be a 12 bolt, but a 10 bolt might work. I want to install a positraction unit as well. I am planning to install the Jim Meyers IFS and have seen a bolt in set of rear leaf spring that claim to lower the truck 4 inches.
Ok, as I measure it the stock axle is 61 inches. Some 12 bolts ar up to 62 inches. I hope to install the widest tires I can fit on the front and then use the same on the rear. I have noticed on a stock truck the tires in the rear seem "set back" further from the fender edge than in the front. What I am trying to avoid is when I install a wider wheel, having the deep inset in the rim. That would mean I need a wider axel I think. Has anybody been through this? Right now the truck is in pieces so I have a hard time measuring tire sizes.
I also plan to switch to 5 lug wheels. I will have to find somone that can build a steel wheel that will take the stock hubcap.
Any advise from others that have set up a truck would be appreciated.
