The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 1954 3600 Rear End Option (Chrysler 9 1/4)

Hello everyone! I'm in the process of getting my '54 road worthy which that includes swapping the original Eaton H052 4.57 ratio rear end with something that includes taller gears for easier highway speeds. I was able to locate a Chrysler 9 1/4 rear end with 3.55 ratio gears out of a 1989 Dodge 250 pick-up that seems to fit the bill as it as a wheel mounting surface measurement of 65" (1.75" wider than the 63.25" Eaton HO52). I've been researching here and elsewhere to find the best rear end option for my 3600 and haven't ran across anyone using the Chrysler 9 1/4 . Is there something I'm missing that wouldn't make this rear end a good option for my 3600?

I don't see anything wrong with it. Is it a 5 lug or 8 lug version on the 9.25? I had an 82 B250 that was 5 lug. I know there was a 8 lug version in some later models.

The 9.25 is a semi-float axle, wheras the HO52 is a full float axle, meaning all the weight is held on the hub and wheel bearing and not the axle shaft. In terms of shear strength, the full float axle will win hands down, but realistically I don't see anyone ever loading a 70 year truck heavy enough to find out where the breaking point of it's axle is.

Its the 8 lug version... I should have mentioned that.

Other than a scoop of mulch for the flower beds it won't be doing any hauling.

Sounds like it will work ok, as long as the tires fit under the back fenders. may have to get creative with rims and "not wide" tires to get under the fenders. Tractor supply sells the 2" wide spring perches you will need. They are labelled as trailer spring perches, at like $10. just set you pinion angle, center the axle, and weld away! If you are not a proficient welder, It would be worth the cost to have it done.

Jon

Those MOPAR rear ends are just about indestructible. I've got several friends who haul goose neck cattle and horse trailers with them, and I've never heard of one failing. The front ends are another kettle of fish, however. The parts look massive, but they wear out in a hurry!
Jerry

I would try to find some 8 lug rims from a 80's Dodge van for the rear. From my junkyard crawling, the Dodge vans had more offset than other makes. I believe they are somewhere in the 4.74" backspace. For the front, Ford van rims work well for most.