Bolt-in rear for a '51?

Buford

Buford

Well-known member
Is there a rear end assy that will bolt-in to a '51 Ford car? I need to overhaul the rear on my '51 and might consider a later model unit. Thanks for any input...Buford.
 
The '57-'59 Ford 9" is very close in overall width, as are some later 8" & 9" Fords, but I know of none that are a "bolt-in", as the spring pads are off an inch or so ('51 is 42" center to center, '57 and later are 43" or more). Add the fact pinion angles might be different, so spring pad replacement/movement should be planned for a good installation, IMO.
 
Buford said:
Is there a rear end assy that will bolt-in to a '51 Ford car? I need to overhaul the rear on my '51 and might consider a later model unit. Thanks for any input...Buford.
Click to expand...

The Sept. 1997 has an article "SHOEBOX SWAP-HANGING A MAVERICK REAR IN THE 49-51 FORD". Article says that the 71-77 Maverick 8 in. rear is almost (but not exactly) a direct bolt in but the spring pads have to be moved to match the Ford springs.Also, be sure and measure the WMS to WMS of the Maverick or any other rear you select to make sure it matches the WMS to WMS of your original 51 Ford rear. The 1971-74 Maverick V-8's and all 75-77 units have the 5x4 1/2 BP that matches the 49-51 Ford front hubs. Get a copy of the article and check it out. Article also says that the Ford Granada and the 64 1/2-65 Mustang are also a close fit. Trouble is, it's getting harder and harder to find these 50 year old rear ends since the price of scrap went up. Junk yards (increasingly)just don't save old cars.
 
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