The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 55 Chev truck rear axle

As much as they have their good points I do want to rid my 49 of the torque tube. I have access to a 55 Chev truck rear axle. Would this be a good choice or is there something better and easier to install? I know i'll need to change the trans.

I have found the '55 truck rear a good working choice , but I did not change the trans ,, just modified the rear yoke and seal area to fit the open driveshaft.
I find the wee 216 responded well to the 3.9 diff ratio.

I think it's a good choice. In fact, you don't need to change the entire housing. The center section will bolt right in. Just get some after market perches and weld them on. I have this set-up on my 1946 1/2 ton with a 283 and a th350 and it works great.
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Rick

Dusty - you say you modified the rear of the trans to accept the open drive line. May have heard that before but could you give me some details please.

Grab a big yoke from an old truck that fits on the splines on the g/box tail shaft.
Make the speedo drive worm fit on to it.
Turn a slim housing to hold a seal that will bolt to the outside of the original tailshaft housing , the bit with the original 1/2 bell .
Source a seal to fit the yoke , turn the seal housing to match.
Make a new driveshaft to the right length .

What else have I forgotten ...........

Oh yeah ,, a slip joint at the front end of the new drive shaft.

I think thats about it ,, you'll get the gist of it once you get into the job

Sounds interesting - thanks for the idea!