The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Seeking recomendations/advise

I am starting on my first rebuild, and would like some advise on how to procede. First, here is what I have:

1951 Chevy 3100
1958-62 235 with 3 speed trans
Stock front axle and brakes
Early Camaro 12 bolt rear axle with drums and open drive line, no shocks on the rear, no mounting brackets for the shocks

My concerns are with the brakes first, then chassis/suspension.

The brakes have failed, thankfully, I noticed this before moving it out of the garage. While I was able to narrow the 12 bolt axle down to early Camaro, I cannot find any ledgible numbers on it to order parts. I did order the drum brake rebuild from Currie, however the ends of the wheel cylinders are hitting a bracket on the backing plate, which looks to be why the brakes that were on it before failed. So, I am still at a loss of how to fix the brakes permanatly.

Since I am having so many doubts with the rear brakes/axle should I try to find a different axle? I have pretty much decided that the whole chassis needs to be completly rebuilt, so I want to evaluate now, make a plan and start down that path.

The overall goal is to be able to drive this truck everywhere I want to go, not just around the block. I guess I just need some suggestions on how to build a solid chassis for this truck.

Brake parts for that axle should be easy to find. Chevy uses the same parts for many models for many years. The wheel cyls. are the same on camera's from 67-75, Napa part # 370324. The shoes are 9.5 X 2 part # 242 used from 67-81. Sometimes I've had to grind a little off the brackets on the backing plates for new cyls. to fit. Any parts store should be able to supply these parts.
Thats a good rear end for that truck & popular swap if done properly. You are correct in evaluating the whole project & writing every thing down. You need to be able to do most of the work yourself or your dream truck could turn into a nightmare. The people on this website are very helpful & knowledgeable.