Here is my 1956 F-250 project. I want to keep it as original as possible but update the drive train for the highway. If you have any suggestions I would appreciate them. I would like to hear what new 2WD front end will work on this truck. Someone told me a newer crown Victoria.. Thanks for looking.

 

Welcome to the forum.

You stated two opposing statements: you want to keep your truck stock, and you want to swap out the entire front suspension. You can have a nice driving truck that is decently comfortable with a well planned and rebuilt stock front suspension. You can get disk brake kits if you feel that is necessary. You can add power steering. All of this is much easier than a full suspension swap, cost less, and is already designed for your truck.

The real problem with hi-way driving on a stock truck is gearing. The stock rear axles are geared like a tractor. You will want to swap out your rear axle for a Dana 60 from a 1972 or older F-250. This will allow you to install a 3.54 rear axle ratio.

A 292 Y block has plenty of power to push your truck and bolts in like it was designed for it, because it was. If you want an automatic and don't like the Ford-o-matic, a small block 289 or 302 is a decent choice with lots of transmission options.

What do you really want to end up with? Automatic or standard transmission? A high-way cruiser? A show truck? A work truck that can tow a heavily loaded trailer? Once we know that, we can really help point you in a well planned direction.

 

38Coupe hit it on the head, depending what you mean by "highway". Around here that means 75 mph. If you want a truck that will do 55-60 comfortably, good brakes and an axle change or overdrive will do ya.

Looks like the PO started the restoration?

 

The finished truck I am looking for is not a street demon but would like to cruise the highway (65-75 mph). I know the cab is where I need the most guidance with fixing. The cab has some rust around the top of the roof where the rain gutter is and I'm sure yet about the front cowl and cab mounts.

Thank you everyone for your posts. I will need your help.

Thanks,

John H.