The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop Hub to hub dimensions??

I'm working on a 51 gmc 1/2 ton. Not much original at this point. I boxed the frame and installed a Mustang II front suspension. The front hub to hub width measured 57-5/8. I'm trying to determine what width the rear axle should be? I found a post referring to using a 62" axle. Does this sound right? I want to use a ford 8.8 or 9" with disc brakes. Any donor suggestions? Oh, and the specs show the wheel base at 116" but I understand the wheels won't be centered properly in the rear. Should I move it to 117?

Thanks

I cut a measuring stick to represent the original axle width inside measure behind the brake dust shield left to right. Took this stick to a junk yard and started checking out cars that had late 60' and early 70's 10 bolt rear ends. The closest I found was a 1970 Oldsmobile rear end 272 gears, came within 3/4" of the original width. Works real well and the width looks stock. Looks good bolted custom driveshaft to a 700r4 & 4.3 v6.
Consistently gives me 22mpg.
http://s150.photobucket.com/user/vickraft/media/024-1.jpg.html?sort=6&o=5

Well I don't have an axle to start with. I think I'll bolt my box together and put the fenders on it. Then I'll mock up a tire and take some measurements. It is difficult when all you have is a frame and you have no intention to go stock anything . I started with what was left after a body shop used it for parts... Not much.

Wheel back spacing, etc all comes into play.

I found what I was looking for. If anyone else is curious check out art Morrison site and open the frame spec sheet for 47-54 chevy.

Very good references, these guys have the right stuff. Glad to hear you found what you needed. My truck is now in storage for the winter and there are days I wish the winter was over so I could open the garage door, rev it up a little and cruise all day. Good luck.