The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Front Axle Swap '42 2 ton to '46 1.5 ton ???

Has anyone swapped a 2 ton front axle into a 1.5 ton? Measures 1/2" wider (1/4" ea. side) but all else looks like it would bolt up. I'm hoping to use the 2 ton disk kit that Randy is putting together plus a little extra beef will help support the Cummins diesel that will be going in soon.

Just thought I'd ask.

I don't see any problem. The cab and fenders are obviously the same as well as the frame, so wheel position should be fine. I don't have any 1.5 tons (that I'm aware of) that have 8.25 x 20s but I have 2 tons that do and clearence is fine. Before you get excited, however, are you sure the kit doesn't bolt up to the 1.5 ton axel? I'm going to try before I do an axel swap.

Thanks Tomcoe --- I still have not pulled the wheel assemblies off either unit but based on tight measurements, it appears that the kit should mount on the 1.5 T.

However, due to the added weight of the Cummins I am installing, combined with the fact that I have a "free" 2 T front axle lying here, I may switch them either way.

That 4bt isn't more than 50lbs heavier if that!

Rh

Howdy im4 --- The weight of the 235 (engine & clutch) is listed in the Chevy book at 569#'s...that puts the Cummins 181#'s heavier. And while the old 4-speed trans was compact, it must have weighed in at least 125#'s (I'm guessing here). The new Allison is a hair over 300 with fluid, so total, I'm putting about an extra 350 combined new pounds up front.

Also, the springs on my old axle are shot (the driver side is at least an inch lower) while those on the 2T appear to be in much better shape and better matched.

Years back,my friend,Ron,swapped stock '49 Studebaker axles from his 3/4-ton. He was converting it to 4X4,so he opted to swap '74 I.H.C. 3/4-ton springs,axles and transfer-case. Point here is that the guy who welded the spring perches to the frame,didn't get a correct measurement on the axles! The springs had at least a 1/2-inch-bow,to the outside of the frame. He must've had a heck of a time,trying to get those springs in the perches! Every time that truck hit a bump,that thing would "jump",but you wouldn't know from one time to the next,just how it would react! It was a wild ride,to say the least. Now,either we do the operations ourselves,or take it to a TRUSTED pro. Just 'cuz somebody says they can do something,is no guarantee that they can. Just be on the safe side,and check,and double-check your measurements!