I am new to F100 restorations and need some advice. I am restomoding a 56 and would like to use a late model rear axle. Any suggestions as to which model would take the least fabrication?

 

67-72 F150 9" rear end. Width is correct and the spring pads linebup. The only issue are shocks mounts. I found a 72 frame with rear end got $25.00.

 

There is a wealth of information hidden under the articles and specs tab at the very top of the page.
Here's just one of the articles that can be found there:
1948 through 1960 Ford F-1 and F-100 Rear Axle (differential) Swaps .: Articles

 

I'd first decide how you want to drive your truck and what engine/tranny you might be using to better zero in on what gear ratio you might want, then see what years and models had gears in the right range. It will be much easier and cheaper to buy an axle with the right gears in it even if you need to change the mounts. Also what you are planning on doing with the front axle will make a difference if you want the wheel stud patterns to match so you don't have to mix and match wheels/carry two spare tires. There is absolutely nothing wrong with using the stock front axle and brakes, they work just fine once rebuilt, but if you must go with IFS the bolt pattern isn't likely to match.

 

The plan is to go with a mild small block w/ an automatic. I will also be using an aftermarket IFS. I was told that late model Crown Vic axle would work...any truth? I want it to be fun to drive...not a chore.

 

Ford Explorer rear ends fit real nice. I used one out of a 91. Got one out of the salvage yard for 125. With the Explorer you can pick drum or disk. The width is a key element when looking at rear ends.

 

How did the driveshaft hook up...isn't the Explorer offset? From what I have read, the Explorer is 59.5 in wide...did this pose a problem with your width? Forgive my ignorance, this is my first F100. I am a mustang man.

 

Here,s a link about rear axle. Hope this helps.

1948 through 1960 Ford F-1 and F-100 Rear Axle (differential) Swaps .: Articles

 

In many vehicles the engine, driveshaft and rear axle are offset to the pass side to give the driver more foot room. It doesn't matter if you use an offset axle with a centered or even driver's side engine offset, the U joints will make it work just fine as long as the engine and tranny are parallel to the chassis centerline (in other words don't point the engine/tranny at the offset pinion). If fact the engine/tranny/driveshaft/rear axle should never be in a perfectly straight line.

 

The pinion is offset so that the axles are equal length.

 

Thanks for making me smarter.