Differential
 

I have a 1952 Chevy half-ton truck. It has a four speed transmission and a 10 bolt differential with 4:11 gears. I want to change the rear gears to 3:08 or even 2:73 while retaining my six bolt truck wheels. ANY IDEAS??? THANKS

With a little persuasion(sp?) a later model complete rear end could be put in. Even if it came with coil springs the spring saddles from your old unit could be cut/welded to the new one. Not sure when GM went to 5 hole, early 70's I think. You should find more available ratios that way. This will be MUCH cheaper than ordering a custom unit. BTW I have a 52 3/4 that is going on an 84 Blazer chasis this summer.

I installed a 80 1/2 ton 4x4 6 lug axle in my 51 chevy 6 years ago. The newer axle is only about and inch or so wider than the original axle.Any year 6 lug axle will work more or less.The most common ratios are 3.08- 3.73. The swap requires new spring perches,u-bolts,lower retainer plates and some fidgiting with the parking brake setup and of course a different transmisson to convert to an open driveshaft from the torque tube.You will also have to have a new drive shaft made or I believe an Astro van drive shaft will work .The original bellhousing will accept a Muncie or Saginaw car or 4spd,a T-5 or the granny low 4 spd from 55 -67, car 3 spd 55 and up. good luck.