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| | | | Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 New Guy | | New Guy Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 | Please help me identify the rear axle on my ½ ton Chevy pickup. It appears I have a 1948, because the gas tank was underneath, not behind the seat, and the windlace is fastened with retaining strips. But, the engine is from a 1953 and the bed is from a 1954. I want to have the axle rebuilt, and there is a different kit for 47-50 and 51-54 rear end gear kits. I have posted pictures of my axle at the following link: https://picasaweb.google.com/barthhc/Axle?authkey=Gv1sRgCPr0-aDHqJrlswEIt looks like there is a number 180 on the casing. | | | | | Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,270 Bubba - Curmudgeon | | Bubba - Curmudgeon Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,270 | harrybolt, There is a casting code at this location. post the code and people might be able to help you ID the year. I think the major external difference between the 47-50 and 51-54 is the "backing plate" for the brakes. There are two wheel cylinders on the earlier years (Huck Brakes), compared to the one top-mounted wheel cylinder on the later years (Bendix Brakes). If you are changing the ring & pinion gears, the ring-gear carrier in the 54 rear end will not work with Patrick's 3.55 R&P set (you need an earlier carrier but it will then work in a 54). | | | | | Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,270 Bubba - Curmudgeon | | Bubba - Curmudgeon Joined: Sep 2001 Posts: 29,270 | LU 820 My guess is 1953 3100 (because 1953 is missing but 1952 starts with K and 1954 starts with M), 4.11:1 rear end. L = 1953 U = Detroit manufacturing plant for use on a 3100 8 = August 20 = 20th | | | | | Joined: Oct 2004 Posts: 1,780 Master Gabster | | Master Gabster Joined: Oct 2004 Posts: 1,780 | What brakes are on it? If it has Huck brakes it's Pre-1951 show a picture of the drum and we can determine if it's Hucks or Bendix. | | | | | Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 New Guy | | New Guy Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 | I called Patrick's Antinque Car and Truck, they make the rear end gears and installation kits, and he told me there is no difference between the rear axles from 1947 until 1954, only a bearing in the torque tube was different. If I get the wrong bearing, he will swap it. So, I am going with his 3.55 ratio upgrade. | | | | | Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 New Guy | | New Guy Joined: Dec 2009 Posts: 30 | I just want to thank you all for the responses and help. | | |
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