the-stig
Junior Member
[FONT="]Suspension[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Front Cross member fabrication: This man makes the cross members on demand Phone # 1(919) 471-8942 to fab your own see [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/54-front-cross-member-build.996263/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Drop Spindles[/FONT]
[FONT="]o [/FONT][FONT="]Fat Man Fabrications[/FONT][FONT="] - '54-'76 Ford Drop Spindles (not listed in their catalog or on their website, so you may need to call or email).[/FONT]
[FONT="]o [/FONT][FONT="]Drop N Stop[/FONT][FONT="] - '54-'64 Fod/Merc or '55-'60 T-Bird. 1.5" or 2.5" drops available. Also available with disc brakes.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Springs and shocks.[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Aerostar springs - Moog PN CC850 ('90 Ford Aerostar van) Lowers 2.5" - 3" Front on all 1949-59 Ford cars[/FONT]
· [FONT="]'49-'59 - KYB Gas-A-Just KG4503 Front(Stock or 2" lowered) With Aerostar coils Ask members on the forum for advice the KYB KG5514's seem to be causing some issues so I no longer can recommend them and KG5517 (R) (stock) lowered? The Gabriel 82026 for the front seems to be fine as they are shorter than the OEM shocks. See below thread)[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Thread detailing Aerostar springs and shock selection - [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/aerostar-coil-springs-on-my-54.1007457/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Original Aerostar thread - [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...coil-springs-49-thru-59-ford-and-merc.260795/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]For Gabriel gas shocks fronts are 82026 and rear 81270 if you carry passengers in the rear you may add the Gabriel High Jacker air shock part# 49105[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Gabriel Shock Chart [/FONT][FONT="]http://gabriel.com/products/docs/Gabriel_Mounting_Codes_Oct2012.pdf[/FONT]
[FONT="]1954-59 Ford IFS Rebuild Articles (thanks Baggs)
- [/FONT][FONT="]Parts 1, 2, and 3[/FONT][FONT="]
1954-56 1 1/8" SWAY BAR [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.larrystbird.com/product/front-sway-bar-kit-5456-1-18/[/FONT][FONT="]
WHEEL BACKSPACING: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/wheel-backspacing.999008/[/FONT][FONT="]
Note - You can also get a free inch or two by removing the lower A-arm spring plate from the arm (drill out rivets) and inserting 1" square bar stock drilled and bolted between the plate and arm. [/FONT][FONT="]Here is an example.(need link)[/FONT]
[FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/9InchAxles.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] TECH on 9" Ford rears
Detailed Specs/Information[/FONT]
[FONT="]How to figure rear end ratio: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.rodauthority.com/news/whats-gear-ratio-find-out/[/FONT][FONT="]
Explorer rear ends will fit just have to move the spring saddles a little. Get a 97 - 01 and get disc brakes. 96 down get drum brakes.
Ranger rears work also but the spring saddles are on top and need to be moved to the bottom . Rangers have smaller brakes.
HOW TO NARROW the 8.8" [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/8-8-rearend.1051093/[/FONT][FONT="]
. 9" rear end facts:http: //[/FONT][FONT="]www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/9InchAxles.shtmlhttp://[/FONT][FONT="]
mid 80s tbird trans mount works also.
mid 80s tbird sway bar for a swaybar upgrade.
cheapest place to get rear springs is jcwhitneys. HERE is some great info on what to look for when shopping for an 8.8 [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] and how to narrow without welding: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/explorer_8-8_swap_no_welding.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] more 8.8 Tech here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.thefabricatorseries.com/...d-explorer-88-rear-axle-part-1-prelude-and-qa[/FONT]
[FONT="]Actually , Ford 8" rears from 65 to 69 Mustangs along with Mavericks , Comets will fit .
The 9" Ford rears from 1957 to 59 from cars & wagon will fit along with Cougar rears from 67 to 69 will fit to .
You need the rear to measure 57" give or take 1/2" from the outside of the brake drum to the other brake d
Jim, Here is another chart from Hemmings [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.hemmings.com/partslocator/axles.html[/FONT][FONT="] Newer 8" info: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1952-56-rear-end-swap.1026934/#post-11623044[/FONT]
[FONT="]Another helpful Chart: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.mustangsandmore.com/ubb/FordRearDimensions.html[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/mayYpK_aPgM[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/cNlW7TfZYQw[/FONT]
[FONT="]Great idea, as for the shocks if you want higher end Bilstein shocks designed for your lowered front end get part number 55-R230 from [/FONT][FONT="]RCD Classics [/FONT][FONT="]
If you buy the kit from Jamco and order the upgraded shocks. The ones that comes with it are too long ask for the part number above.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Regarding Ranger rear axles; look for 1990-92 are 56.5", they got wider after that. Also, look for a super cab 4X4. The four cylinder and some small sixes had the small rear end, (7.5) which may be OK for putzing around, but the small brakes had trouble stopping a Ranger. The ten inch brakes will bolt on any housing, find the backing plates and drums off the same donnor. The 8.8 in my 55 is 56 5/8 outside to outside. It came with a 3.73 Traction Loc. Ranger and 8.8 axle information is here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://therangerstation.com/tech_library/index-axles.shtml[/FONT]
[FONT="]Ford[/FONT]
[FONT="]Outside Width Year Model[/FONT][FONT="]
56.50--1969-1977 Maverick 8"
57.00--1974-1978 Mustang II 8"
57.25--1957-1959 Ford, Ranchero, Station Wagon
57.25--1965-1966 Mustang
58.00--1966-1977 Bronco
58.00--1964-1965 Falcon
58.00--1977-1981 Granada/Versailles
58.50--1977-1981Versailles
59.25--1967-1970Mustang, Fairlane, Comet, Cougar
60.00--1967 Cougar
60.00--1958-1960--Edsel
61.00--1964-1971 Ford Full Size
61.00--1949-1951 Mercury
61.25--1957-1972 Ford F-100 Pickup
61.25--1960-1964 Ford Full Size
61.25--1971-1973 Mustang
61.25--1967-1973 Torino, Ranchero, Fairlane
63.00--1970-1979 Ranchero & Torino
63.00--1972-1979 Ford Full Size & Intermediate
63.50--1967 Fairlane (Coil Springs)
65.25--1973-1986 Ford F-150 Pickup
65.25--1978-1986 Bronco
65.25--1973-1986 Ford Van 3/4 Ton
68.00--1972 Ford Van 3/4 Ton
69.25--1977-1986Ford E-150 Van
[/FONT]
[FONT="]Chevy[/FONT][FONT="]
Outside Width Year Model
54.25--1983-2004 Chevy S10 2WD, GMC S15 2WD
57.75--1962-1964 Chevy II/Nova
57.75--1965-1967 Chevy II/Nova
58.00--1978-1988 Chevy Malibu, Monte Carlo
59.50--1968-1982 Corvette
60.00--1967-1969 Camaro
60.25--1968-1979 Chevy II/Nova
60.50--1984-1995 Corvette
60.50--1964-1967 Chevelle
62.00--1955-1959 Chevy Pickup
62.50--1968-1972 Chevelle
62.50--1970-1981 Camaro/Firebird[/FONT]
[FONT="]
Mopar [/FONT]
[FONT="]Outside Width Year Model[/FONT][FONT="]
55.60--1960-1976--7 1/4 A-body
55.60--1973-1976--8 1/4 A-body
55.60--1966-1972--8 3/4 A-body
55.60--All--8 3/4 A-body
56.00--1932-1934 -All Mopars
57.40--1963-1977--8 1/4 A-body
58.54--All--8 1/4-F-body
58.54--All--8 1/4- M-body
58.54--All--8 1/4- J-body
59.00--1935-1936-- All Mopars
59.14--1966-1972--9 3/4- B-body
59.20--1962-1972--8 3/4- B-body
60.00--1937-1948-- All Mopars
60.70--All--8 3/4- E-body
60.70--All--9 3/4- E-body
62.00--All--8 1/4- B-body
62.00--1971--1974-8 3/4- B-body
62.00--All--9 1/4- B-body
63.40--All--8 1/4- C-body
63.40--1971-1974--8 3/4- B-body S.W.
63.40--Al-l-9 1/4- C-body [/FONT]
[FONT="]I saw reference to this article about Ford rear axles over on the 'Barn, from Hemmings & thought it might be of interest too some over here too: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.hemmings.com/hmn/stories/2012/03/01/hmn_feature30.html[/FONT]
[FONT="]Bringing this to the top again for reference in the "sticky File" as the Aerostar spring swap has been so popular and this link has a ton of before and after Pix: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795[/FONT]
[FONT="]not all ranger rear axles work depending on aplication) 83-92 7.5 are 56 1/2 wide 83-92 7.5 are 58 1/2 90-92 8.8 are 56 1/2 and 93-99 8.8 are 58 1/2 Full info on them can be found here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT]
[FONT="]in searching for rear shocks for my '55, these are the 3 choices that came up most often as (affordable) OE replacement. Most sites don't seem to include all options if you choose 'Fairlane' as a model, but Hollanders lists this for the interchange:
'52 - '56 passenger
'57 - '58 pass. w/ metal spring except S.W., convertible, and sedan delivery
'55 - '57 T-bird
KYB Gas-A-Just KG5517
Extended Length: 17.87"
Compressed Length: 10.91"
Travel: 6.96"
Gabriel Guardian Shock 81270
Extended Length: 17.67 in.
Compressed Length: 10.56 in.
Travel: 7.11 in
Monroe Monro-Matic 31125
Extended Length 20.75"
Compressed Length 12.25"
Travel: 8.50" [/FONT]
[FONT="]Here is how to read the tags on Ford rear ends,scroll down to the bottom and click on the appropriate prefix: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.fordification.com/tech/rearends_ford01.htm[/FONT]
[FONT="]Aerostar spring testimonials:[/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795[/FONT][FONT="] A later update: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...star-coil-installation.1117721/#post-12689589[/FONT]
[FONT="]Handy Gear Ratio and MPH Chart: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.prosystemsracing.com/calculate.html[/FONT][FONT="] remember this will be a 1 to 1 ratio, to calculate with OD multiply the 1 to 1 by the OD ratio. [/FONT]
[FONT="]1955-56 Ford Cross member plans: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/media/55-56-ford-crossmember-spec-sheet-001.174642/[/FONT][FONT="] and [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/attachments/55-56-crossmember-001-jpg.3001353/[/FONT]
[FONT="]Sway Bars front and Rear: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.quickorgarage.com/CartPages/ford1.htm#classic[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]8.8 rear end Tech,These rears are popular swap material that can be found in later Rangers and Explorers usually under $200 at most Pic-A Parts many have locker rear ends this shows you what to look for and how to read the codes: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] A practice becoming popular with these is to use the 31 spline axles that come with disc brakes which are wider than the earlier models,to narrow them folks cut down one side and use the shorter axle on the cut side this gives a rear about 56" wide (makes for EZ tire changing) Here is a video showing the narrowing process on a 7.5" Ranger the same applies to the 8.8" rears. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__fsB4ucfkU[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Here is a handy chart to help you pick rear end gears and tires: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.prosystemsracing.com/calculate.html[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Here is the updated new link: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/media/55-56-ford-crossmember-spec-sheet-001.174642/[/FONT][FONT="] Also this member posted awhile back that he is making them again for sale. UPDATE as of 5/30/19 [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1954-56-ford-front-cross-member.1151883/#post-13102167[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Full Suspension upgrade for 1952-53 Fords [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.performanceonline.com/1949-53-Ford-Custom-Stage-2-Tubular-Control-Arm-Suspension-Kit/[/FONT][FONT="] you can use Aerostar coil springs and KYB KG 5514 shocks with it about $140 extra. [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Thanks to Charles aka 56Ford390 for this tutorial on Leaf springs and suspension. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.suspensionspecialists.com/tech0004.html#9[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Rear axle fitment tips [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.racingjunk.com/news/201...m_medium=email&utm_campaign=Burnoutnewsletter[/FONT][FONT="] Here's More:[/FONT][FONT="]http://mmb.maverick.to/threads/explorer-8-8-rear-end-bracket-welding-install-pictures.77673/[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Explorer 8.8 rear end swap: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...-8-rear-end-swap-on-my-54-customline.1098756/[/FONT][FONT="] Five parts to this Video:[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/NQsnpypbXgI[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/2_t3Nt5S_Rg[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/hgVQ6KiojOg[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/U3vbxR1He2k[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/smKY5fi4LhY[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Handy Tire size Specs. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.angelfire.com/pa5/carclub/tiresize.html[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Source for new 1952-56 Leaf Springs: [/FONT][FONT="]
[/FONT][FONT="]https://www.generalspringkc.com/Lea...lGnxmkXdcYcnm8bedXuNbNjpxZgLedLT-OhnqoqW1vdbc[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Measuring for Wheel and tire fit. [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.holley.com/blog/post/ho...aPQ&utm_content=126969287&utm_source=hs_email[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Great pictorial and step by step "How To" of a front cross member repair. [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...gine-swap-options-anyone-done-a-400m.1231207/[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]How to convert from bias-ply tire measurements to modern metric tire measurements without using a chart[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://www.hemmings.com/stories/20...aily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2021-07-29[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="] [/FONT]
[FONT="]Suspension[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://stores.a-resto-parts.com/products/1954-1956-ford-full-size-new-front-end-suspension-rebuild-kit-with-inner-tie-rods.html[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://www.energysuspensionparts.com/universal-dust-boots.asp[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
· [FONT="]Front Cross member fabrication: This man makes the cross members on demand Phone # 1(919) 471-8942 to fab your own see [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/54-front-cross-member-build.996263/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Drop Spindles[/FONT]
[FONT="]o [/FONT][FONT="]Fat Man Fabrications[/FONT][FONT="] - '54-'76 Ford Drop Spindles (not listed in their catalog or on their website, so you may need to call or email).[/FONT]
[FONT="]o [/FONT][FONT="]Drop N Stop[/FONT][FONT="] - '54-'64 Fod/Merc or '55-'60 T-Bird. 1.5" or 2.5" drops available. Also available with disc brakes.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Springs and shocks.[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Aerostar springs - Moog PN CC850 ('90 Ford Aerostar van) Lowers 2.5" - 3" Front on all 1949-59 Ford cars[/FONT]
· [FONT="]'49-'59 - KYB Gas-A-Just KG4503 Front(Stock or 2" lowered) With Aerostar coils Ask members on the forum for advice the KYB KG5514's seem to be causing some issues so I no longer can recommend them and KG5517 (R) (stock) lowered? The Gabriel 82026 for the front seems to be fine as they are shorter than the OEM shocks. See below thread)[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Thread detailing Aerostar springs and shock selection - [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/aerostar-coil-springs-on-my-54.1007457/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Original Aerostar thread - [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...coil-springs-49-thru-59-ford-and-merc.260795/[/FONT]
· [FONT="]For Gabriel gas shocks fronts are 82026 and rear 81270 if you carry passengers in the rear you may add the Gabriel High Jacker air shock part# 49105[/FONT]
· [FONT="]Gabriel Shock Chart [/FONT][FONT="]http://gabriel.com/products/docs/Gabriel_Mounting_Codes_Oct2012.pdf[/FONT]
[FONT="]1954-59 Ford IFS Rebuild Articles (thanks Baggs)
- [/FONT][FONT="]Parts 1, 2, and 3[/FONT][FONT="]
1954-56 1 1/8" SWAY BAR [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.larrystbird.com/product/front-sway-bar-kit-5456-1-18/[/FONT][FONT="]
WHEEL BACKSPACING: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/wheel-backspacing.999008/[/FONT][FONT="]
Note - You can also get a free inch or two by removing the lower A-arm spring plate from the arm (drill out rivets) and inserting 1" square bar stock drilled and bolted between the plate and arm. [/FONT][FONT="]Here is an example.(need link)[/FONT]
[FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/9InchAxles.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] TECH on 9" Ford rears
Detailed Specs/Information[/FONT]
[FONT="]How to figure rear end ratio: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.rodauthority.com/news/whats-gear-ratio-find-out/[/FONT][FONT="]
Explorer rear ends will fit just have to move the spring saddles a little. Get a 97 - 01 and get disc brakes. 96 down get drum brakes.
Ranger rears work also but the spring saddles are on top and need to be moved to the bottom . Rangers have smaller brakes.
HOW TO NARROW the 8.8" [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/8-8-rearend.1051093/[/FONT][FONT="]
. 9" rear end facts:http: //[/FONT][FONT="]www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/9InchAxles.shtmlhttp://[/FONT][FONT="]
mid 80s tbird trans mount works also.
mid 80s tbird sway bar for a swaybar upgrade.
cheapest place to get rear springs is jcwhitneys. HERE is some great info on what to look for when shopping for an 8.8 [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] and how to narrow without welding: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/explorer_8-8_swap_no_welding.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] more 8.8 Tech here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.thefabricatorseries.com/...d-explorer-88-rear-axle-part-1-prelude-and-qa[/FONT]
[FONT="]Actually , Ford 8" rears from 65 to 69 Mustangs along with Mavericks , Comets will fit .
The 9" Ford rears from 1957 to 59 from cars & wagon will fit along with Cougar rears from 67 to 69 will fit to .
You need the rear to measure 57" give or take 1/2" from the outside of the brake drum to the other brake d
Jim, Here is another chart from Hemmings [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.hemmings.com/partslocator/axles.html[/FONT][FONT="] Newer 8" info: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1952-56-rear-end-swap.1026934/#post-11623044[/FONT]
[FONT="]Another helpful Chart: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.mustangsandmore.com/ubb/FordRearDimensions.html[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/mayYpK_aPgM[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/cNlW7TfZYQw[/FONT]
[FONT="]Great idea, as for the shocks if you want higher end Bilstein shocks designed for your lowered front end get part number 55-R230 from [/FONT][FONT="]RCD Classics [/FONT][FONT="]
If you buy the kit from Jamco and order the upgraded shocks. The ones that comes with it are too long ask for the part number above.[/FONT]
[FONT="]Regarding Ranger rear axles; look for 1990-92 are 56.5", they got wider after that. Also, look for a super cab 4X4. The four cylinder and some small sixes had the small rear end, (7.5) which may be OK for putzing around, but the small brakes had trouble stopping a Ranger. The ten inch brakes will bolt on any housing, find the backing plates and drums off the same donnor. The 8.8 in my 55 is 56 5/8 outside to outside. It came with a 3.73 Traction Loc. Ranger and 8.8 axle information is here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://therangerstation.com/tech_library/index-axles.shtml[/FONT]
[FONT="]Ford[/FONT]
[FONT="]Outside Width Year Model[/FONT][FONT="]
56.50--1969-1977 Maverick 8"
57.00--1974-1978 Mustang II 8"
57.25--1957-1959 Ford, Ranchero, Station Wagon
57.25--1965-1966 Mustang
58.00--1966-1977 Bronco
58.00--1964-1965 Falcon
58.00--1977-1981 Granada/Versailles
58.50--1977-1981Versailles
59.25--1967-1970Mustang, Fairlane, Comet, Cougar
60.00--1967 Cougar
60.00--1958-1960--Edsel
61.00--1964-1971 Ford Full Size
61.00--1949-1951 Mercury
61.25--1957-1972 Ford F-100 Pickup
61.25--1960-1964 Ford Full Size
61.25--1971-1973 Mustang
61.25--1967-1973 Torino, Ranchero, Fairlane
63.00--1970-1979 Ranchero & Torino
63.00--1972-1979 Ford Full Size & Intermediate
63.50--1967 Fairlane (Coil Springs)
65.25--1973-1986 Ford F-150 Pickup
65.25--1978-1986 Bronco
65.25--1973-1986 Ford Van 3/4 Ton
68.00--1972 Ford Van 3/4 Ton
69.25--1977-1986Ford E-150 Van
[/FONT]
[FONT="]Chevy[/FONT][FONT="]
Outside Width Year Model
54.25--1983-2004 Chevy S10 2WD, GMC S15 2WD
57.75--1962-1964 Chevy II/Nova
57.75--1965-1967 Chevy II/Nova
58.00--1978-1988 Chevy Malibu, Monte Carlo
59.50--1968-1982 Corvette
60.00--1967-1969 Camaro
60.25--1968-1979 Chevy II/Nova
60.50--1984-1995 Corvette
60.50--1964-1967 Chevelle
62.00--1955-1959 Chevy Pickup
62.50--1968-1972 Chevelle
62.50--1970-1981 Camaro/Firebird[/FONT]
[FONT="]
Mopar [/FONT]
[FONT="]Outside Width Year Model[/FONT][FONT="]
55.60--1960-1976--7 1/4 A-body
55.60--1973-1976--8 1/4 A-body
55.60--1966-1972--8 3/4 A-body
55.60--All--8 3/4 A-body
56.00--1932-1934 -All Mopars
57.40--1963-1977--8 1/4 A-body
58.54--All--8 1/4-F-body
58.54--All--8 1/4- M-body
58.54--All--8 1/4- J-body
59.00--1935-1936-- All Mopars
59.14--1966-1972--9 3/4- B-body
59.20--1962-1972--8 3/4- B-body
60.00--1937-1948-- All Mopars
60.70--All--8 3/4- E-body
60.70--All--9 3/4- E-body
62.00--All--8 1/4- B-body
62.00--1971--1974-8 3/4- B-body
62.00--All--9 1/4- B-body
63.40--All--8 1/4- C-body
63.40--1971-1974--8 3/4- B-body S.W.
63.40--Al-l-9 1/4- C-body [/FONT]
[FONT="]I saw reference to this article about Ford rear axles over on the 'Barn, from Hemmings & thought it might be of interest too some over here too: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.hemmings.com/hmn/stories/2012/03/01/hmn_feature30.html[/FONT]
[FONT="]Bringing this to the top again for reference in the "sticky File" as the Aerostar spring swap has been so popular and this link has a ton of before and after Pix: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795[/FONT]
[FONT="]not all ranger rear axles work depending on aplication) 83-92 7.5 are 56 1/2 wide 83-92 7.5 are 58 1/2 90-92 8.8 are 56 1/2 and 93-99 8.8 are 58 1/2 Full info on them can be found here: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT]
[FONT="]in searching for rear shocks for my '55, these are the 3 choices that came up most often as (affordable) OE replacement. Most sites don't seem to include all options if you choose 'Fairlane' as a model, but Hollanders lists this for the interchange:
'52 - '56 passenger
'57 - '58 pass. w/ metal spring except S.W., convertible, and sedan delivery
'55 - '57 T-bird
KYB Gas-A-Just KG5517
Extended Length: 17.87"
Compressed Length: 10.91"
Travel: 6.96"
Gabriel Guardian Shock 81270
Extended Length: 17.67 in.
Compressed Length: 10.56 in.
Travel: 7.11 in
Monroe Monro-Matic 31125
Extended Length 20.75"
Compressed Length 12.25"
Travel: 8.50" [/FONT]
[FONT="]Here is how to read the tags on Ford rear ends,scroll down to the bottom and click on the appropriate prefix: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.fordification.com/tech/rearends_ford01.htm[/FONT]
[FONT="]Aerostar spring testimonials:[/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795[/FONT][FONT="] A later update: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...star-coil-installation.1117721/#post-12689589[/FONT]
[FONT="]Handy Gear Ratio and MPH Chart: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.prosystemsracing.com/calculate.html[/FONT][FONT="] remember this will be a 1 to 1 ratio, to calculate with OD multiply the 1 to 1 by the OD ratio. [/FONT]
[FONT="]1955-56 Ford Cross member plans: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/media/55-56-ford-crossmember-spec-sheet-001.174642/[/FONT][FONT="] and [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/attachments/55-56-crossmember-001-jpg.3001353/[/FONT]
[FONT="]Sway Bars front and Rear: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.quickorgarage.com/CartPages/ford1.htm#classic[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]8.8 rear end Tech,These rears are popular swap material that can be found in later Rangers and Explorers usually under $200 at most Pic-A Parts many have locker rear ends this shows you what to look for and how to read the codes: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml[/FONT][FONT="] A practice becoming popular with these is to use the 31 spline axles that come with disc brakes which are wider than the earlier models,to narrow them folks cut down one side and use the shorter axle on the cut side this gives a rear about 56" wide (makes for EZ tire changing) Here is a video showing the narrowing process on a 7.5" Ranger the same applies to the 8.8" rears. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__fsB4ucfkU[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
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[FONT="]Here is a handy chart to help you pick rear end gears and tires: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.prosystemsracing.com/calculate.html[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Here is the updated new link: [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/media/55-56-ford-crossmember-spec-sheet-001.174642/[/FONT][FONT="] Also this member posted awhile back that he is making them again for sale. UPDATE as of 5/30/19 [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1954-56-ford-front-cross-member.1151883/#post-13102167[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Full Suspension upgrade for 1952-53 Fords [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.performanceonline.com/1949-53-Ford-Custom-Stage-2-Tubular-Control-Arm-Suspension-Kit/[/FONT][FONT="] you can use Aerostar coil springs and KYB KG 5514 shocks with it about $140 extra. [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Thanks to Charles aka 56Ford390 for this tutorial on Leaf springs and suspension. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.suspensionspecialists.com/tech0004.html#9[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Rear axle fitment tips [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.racingjunk.com/news/201...m_medium=email&utm_campaign=Burnoutnewsletter[/FONT][FONT="] Here's More:[/FONT][FONT="]http://mmb.maverick.to/threads/explorer-8-8-rear-end-bracket-welding-install-pictures.77673/[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
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[FONT="]Explorer 8.8 rear end swap: [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...-8-rear-end-swap-on-my-54-customline.1098756/[/FONT][FONT="] Five parts to this Video:[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/NQsnpypbXgI[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/2_t3Nt5S_Rg[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/hgVQ6KiojOg[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/U3vbxR1He2k[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://youtu.be/smKY5fi4LhY[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
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[FONT="]Handy Tire size Specs. [/FONT][FONT="]http://www.angelfire.com/pa5/carclub/tiresize.html[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Source for new 1952-56 Leaf Springs: [/FONT][FONT="]
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[FONT="]Measuring for Wheel and tire fit. [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.holley.com/blog/post/ho...aPQ&utm_content=126969287&utm_source=hs_email[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Great pictorial and step by step "How To" of a front cross member repair. [/FONT][FONT="]https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum...gine-swap-options-anyone-done-a-400m.1231207/[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]How to convert from bias-ply tire measurements to modern metric tire measurements without using a chart[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://www.hemmings.com/stories/20...aily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=2021-07-29[/FONT][FONT="] [/FONT]
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[FONT="]Suspension[/FONT]
[FONT="]https://stores.a-resto-parts.com/products/1954-1956-ford-full-size-new-front-end-suspension-rebuild-kit-with-inner-tie-rods.html[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]
[FONT="]https://www.energysuspensionparts.com/universal-dust-boots.asp[/FONT][FONT="][/FONT]