When I rebuilt my rear end for my COE, I used the axle housing from a 1953 Chevy 2 ton with guts from a 1941 Chevy 1 1/2 ton and the parts from the COEs original rear, 1 1/2 ton. There isn't much difference between the single speed rears from 1941 to at least '53. The axle housing in the '53 had a larger circumfrence around the axle shafts but was built to use the same carrier assembly.
There are small differences in the carrier assembly and side gears as later models used thrust washers under the side gears therefore making the side gears a little shorter. Axle shafts are different depending on the hub/drum combos used throughout the years. I used my '47.1 hubs with the '53 drums and used the Bendix brakes from the '53.
I'm surprised there is actually a 1/2" difference in width. It shouldn't be a problem.
Jeff
