The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Front axles, '55 & '59

I have the opportunity to buy a '55 front axle for $100. Will it swap directly into my '59? The '55 has brand new drums, shoes, wheel cylinders, and freshly packed bearings, so if they're identical it saves me more than a few $$$. But before I pull the trigger I thought I'd better check.

The whole axle will fit, there is a difference in kingpins, but the whole axle should interchange.

When you say '55 you need to clarify if it is a first or second series '55. First series axles are about 4 inches narrower than second series 1955-59 axles.

Sorry. I knew better. It's second series.

No problem then.

thanks.

Be sure you replace the wedges between the axle and the springs! Use the ones on your truck and when you're done get the caster checked by a shop. It'll probably be ok, though.

best wishes,

Les

One other thing to watch out for that's a difference in the axles, the drag link arm is different on the '55 that what is on '56-'59. They used an insert piece on the bottom when the stud on the drag link connects, it's not unusual to see that missing. The Pitman arm is the same way. The drag link will work without the insert, but you will need to add a thick washer for the nut to seat on, otherwise it will try to suck down in the hole. Alternatively, you can swap the arm from the old axle.