The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Chevy Rear End Swap 61 to 50

Just pulled a 235 out of a 61 chevy pickup to overhaul and install in my 50/3100. I'm now think about using the drive train and rear end on the same truck to install in that 50/3100. Any problems and what might the gear ratio of that rear end be?

If you are using all three components from that 61 truck I don't see any problems. They worked in unison in the 61 they should do the same in your 50. don't know the rear end ration but I don't think it would be 4:11 but probably 3:90.

Isn't the '61 a coil spring rear suspension?
You'll have to cut off all the coil spring stuff and weld on leaf spring perches to put in your '50.
Or...you could just install the '61 center section in your '50 rear end. It's a bolt in deal.
The '61 rear will have better brakes though.
As previously mentioned the '61 is probably 3.90.
I assume the '61 is a half ton also.

If you are lucky, you will have an Eaton 3:90 posi. That rear was an option from 60-62.

You will want to use your bellhousing from your 50 model as teh mounts are totally different. As well you will have to drill the front motor plate for teh center type mount used in your 50 model. On the rear of your 50 the rear axle isn't centered with in the wheelwell...so you might as well buy some perches, drill the locating hole forward an inch and quarter/half and weld in the new rear end housing. Even the ealier 55 and up housings you ahve to weld due to being originally mounted under teh spring. If you don't want to mess with that, just replace the center section as earlier stated, but brake parts will be easier to locate locally for teh 62, and more than likely a slightly better design.