can I change the rear axel for a newer rear axel. This is an old farm truck and the top speed is 40 mph. It has the flathead 6 and four speed trans in it.

 

Welcome to FTE!

Yes, you can change the rear axle. I have not done it, but I know it can be done. One recommendation is a Dana 70 out of a late 70's motor home (I think).

Maybe Stu McMillan (truckdog62563) will answer, as he had one in the past.

 

Right, Joe. It's the Dana 70HD from a mid/late '70s or early '80s Dodge RM 400/500 based Class A motor home. Same 5 lug x 8" bolt pattern, and spring perches line up I believe within 1/8" on each side. The way it looked to me when I had mine all I'd have had to do was grind a bit off the perches on one side of each and it'd be done. I realized I wasn't getting the project done so sold the axle and my set of Alcoas to a near by F-5 guy to use under his truck. The 4.56/1 gear set teamed with the 19.5s is a nice package. I've since seen the swap made under a similar sized Studebaker M16. Below is the pic of mine. Stu