I have a 1963 F-850 dump truck (401 - 4 bbl Super Duty engine). When it came time to replace brake drums I hit a wall with the items being long discontinued, with no work-arounds, and no one even wants to turn the 16" I.D. pieces on a lathe because of "chatter". They are worn out of spec, anyhow. A new backing plate solution also requires new axle shafts. Together with some uncertainty as to the condition of other parts in the Eaton 17800 (w/ 2-spd, Hydrovac hydraulic brakes), I am after a replacement axle that is as much the same (compatible to the truck) as possible, but with available drums and other parts. Is an Eaton 17201 about as good as it gets for me, or are there more contemporary and available solutions ? Avoiding fabrication to have it fit the truck as-is is why I'm asking.

 

Wow ! Amish Ford is sure prolific.