Hi all
I am in the process of identifying what rear end to get for my 56 F100.

Here is my question. What is the effect of the rear end not tracking directly behind the front tires?

My 56 is a flat bed so I have no fenders to fit up to. There are a lot of rear ends that are not the same width as mine. I can even put a dually on it. But I don't want to introduce bad handling into the truck

 

I had the box off mine, when I installed the 9" axle. Just center the axle on the frame with both sides (wheels/tires/brakes) sticking out the same amount. I measured from the rear of both frame rails to make sure the axle was aligned 90 degrees to the frame axis. The last step was to weld the spring perches and set the rear pinion angle.

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 12-Jun-02 AT 10:35 AM (EST)]Thats great information. Thanks

But what (if anything) happens if you use a rear end that is not the same width as the original. If I track 1 or 2 inches outside of the original will it cause any problems with drivability?

 

No problem with having different track widths between front and rear. Many vehicles in production are like this. Usually, it is not noticeable unless taken to an extreme. I think it is a true statement that all Ford Rangers have a different front and rear track width.

 

Thanks Ranger Pat

A Dually rear end may be the way for me. I plan an towing a travel trailer with the 56 in a year or so when I get it all fixed up. I also like the look of dually.

 

Your other option is to get wheels with a different offset that lines the tires up front to rear. There are a couple of wheel companies in california that sell wheels at darn near any offset you'd like.
But if your heart is set on duallies, go for it.

John