I am trying to figure out if my 69 bronco has the big bearing 9". I know one way to find out is by measuring the distance between the bolts that hold the backing plate on. Does anyone know these measurements or know another way to find out if I have a big bearing?
Thanks

 

A big bearing has 3/4" nuts holding the axles in, and a small bearing has 9/16" nuts. Also, the big bearing has 11" brakes and the small has 10" brakes (in 69's)

Jason

 

Thanks... I figured out i have a small bearing. I found some ends on ebay i can weld on my 9". Do you think that is a good idea? Also I can't find a complete rearend for sale anywhere.

 

I've heard of the large ends being put on. Turns it to a Torino style housing.
If you're going to go to the trouble of welding the ends on, Find a 77-early 80's full size housing and have it narrowed. The housings are stronger and you also get the larger brakes.

Jason

 

Yea, I don't think I am going to use the ends. They are 50 bucks on ebay. I found a guy who can build a whole rear end for $1,400. This includes Detroit locker, third member (with 4.10 gears), axles, bearings and seals... the works. The only thing it doesn't come with is disk brakes. He will add the disk brakes for an additional $500, but he uses an e brake that is basically just brake shoes inside the rotor. I just don't care for that because it is kind of in the open and if you get mud and dirt up in there they might not want to stop. I think the 1,400 is a great deal... What do you think?