The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Replacement rear axle for '49 dually?

I posted this in the driveline area and thought I'd include it here as well since I've got a (mildly) big bolt. I'm considering replacing the rear end on my '49 1 ton dually with something else to increase the speed a bit and make finding brake parts a little easier. The problem is I don't know what else might fit. I want to maintain the dually and don't really intend to replace the original engine (216) or 4 speed transmission. I also want to keep the PTO for the hydraulics 'cause I think that's what help make my truck unique and special. Does anyone have any suggestions? I've come across some discussion on late '70s dually rear ends being a possible solution but I haven't found anything real helpful so far. What would be up and/or down sides of the various options - given that I don't have a real shop to work from and can't do much of my own "heavy" work? :confused:

Thanks in advance for the suggestions and help.
Jim

If you have the eaton rear axle, the pumpkin is removeable and you can replace it with a pumpkin from a 3/4 ton up to 72.

The corp 14 bolt rear should work without too many problems. Measure the distance from springpad to springpad - then see if you can find a 14 bolt with that same dimension, it should bolt right up. You MUST get a dually rear if you want to bolt up the dual rear wheels from your truck. Dually axles are shorter than the single wheel axles. There are a number of different gearsets made for this axle, so you should be able to find what you want. If you really want to increase your top end, find an axle from a diesel rig - these had 3.73, 3.43 gears.

It is also possible that a dana 60 or 70 rear may fit in your truck (other makes have them too, so check under those trucks)- just make sure that the spring pad width is the same.

If you can't find an axle with the right spring pad spacing or you find one you like but the spring pads are the wrong distance apart,it's not too hard to cut or grind off the old pads and weld new ones on to match your springs. Most of the racing parts suppliers have 'em for fairly cheap or you can make them from steel channel,the width of your springs. Keep in mind you might have to modify your drive line length,and/or change your pinion yoke to match your driveline. (or use a conversion u-joint) any driveline should be able to help you with that.
Speed