Hey all, I have a ‘66 f100 with a 429, C6 tranny and 9” narrowed rear end. The truck was built a while ago by my dad and grandfather. My dad left it to me when he passed. It’s currently set up for the drag strip. Narrowed, tubbed, all that fun stuff. Now, I’m wanting to put a “stock” width rear end back in it and gear it for cruising. I don’t have much desire to go to the track. I have my dirt bike for that. But I hate to see the truck just sit and wanna be able to drive it around.
I have the mechanical knowledge and skills to do the work, I just don’t know where to start. I’m was thinking of finding another 9” and building it and swapping them out in case I do get the itch to go race. What advice do y’all have as far as gearing I should look into? Aftermarket third member?
I can’t remember how much HP it’s pushing. If i remember correctly it was a high 11s low 12s in a quarter. Thanks y’all for any input. I really appreciate it!

 

Welcome to FTE! That is a good-looking bump side you have there. There is a forum for 67-72's but we're OK with you being here. 1967 - 1972 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums (ford-trucks.com)
I'm guessing it is 4-linked with coil overs? If so, your easiest way is to pull the center section and determine what spline the axles are then change the ring and pinion to a streetable ratio or build or buy another center. Then put on a set of Pro Street tires. Hoosier Pro Street Tires - Free Shipping on Orders Over $99 at Summit Racing
You need to make sure the brakes are up to driving on the street also. Post some pics of the rear end set up and the engine. We like pictures and Hot rods.
Will it burn pump gas? Or does it need race gas? If it will only burn race gas at $20 and up per gallon you are going to have some expensive cruising.

 

Depending on what was done to the frame, it may be wiser to leave the rear housing and axles as is. If the frame was narrowed, and it's likely that it is based on how deep those rear wheels are, it's gonna be a bit of work to convert it back.....or find a donor frame.

Then it would be the most cost effective to find a complete rear end, drum to drum, to swap it out. Aftermarket stuff could easily ring up a few Gs for the parts.

I would suggest re-gear it with a street gear and run the fatties. Like Crop Duster says, Hoosier makes a street tire that big and there are others as well.
Rock that Pro Street Look! It's making a come-back!

 

Need some guidance RE: rearend

My guidance? Work it; don’t sit on it in a Barcalounger like yours truly.