Hub & spindle interchangability
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8th Gear
Joined: Apr 2026
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Hub & spindle interchangability
The 8-lug front wheel hubs on my '49 F3 are rotted beyond saving. Looking for replacements I haven't seen anyone reproducing these, and also haven't found any decent used available. I have found 5-lug F1 hubs though.
I'm not opposed to using the F1 hubs and wheels if I can. Will they fit F3 spindles?
I'm not opposed to using the F1 hubs and wheels if I can. Will they fit F3 spindles?
Parts Nerd Extraordinaire
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 4,385
Likes: 1,794
From: Western NY
F1-F3 (Excluding Parcel) used the same 7RC-3010-A Front Axle I-Beam and 7HY-3105/7RD-3106/A8C-3105/6-A Spindle Assembly. However, things begin to differ at the hub assemblies. The F1 uses the 8C-1104-A hub, F2 & F3 the 
-1105-A hub.
Definitely give Chucks Trucks LLC a call and see what he has in his ever evolving used serviceable inventory.
Using the smaller hubs and brake hardware and whatnot will de-rate your truck.
-1105-A hub.Definitely give Chucks Trucks LLC a call and see what he has in his ever evolving used serviceable inventory.
Using the smaller hubs and brake hardware and whatnot will de-rate your truck.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,789
Likes: 47
From: Minnesota
I had a hard time finding F3 brake parts, I ended up putting a disc brake conversion on front. If you order large brake rotors you can get them drilled for your bolt pattern.
Last edited by Christopher2; Apr 21, 2026 at 06:47 PM.
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 16,196
Likes: 4,807
From: Burbank, WA
F1-3 all use the same axle, spindles, and steering parts. F1 and F2/3 hubs and brakes will interchange. Any F1 brakes, aftermarket disc kit, etc., will fit the same on a F2/3. Or if you need spindles for your F3, F1 parts are the same.
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8th Gear
Joined: Apr 2026
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The more I look into this, the better de-rating looks. I like the look of the truck with the big 8-lug wheels all around. I'm also trying to keep as much of the original appearance of the truck as I can. But its becoming apparent that keeping this truck in its original configuration will result in a vehicle with maybe a 50mph top speed and brakes consisting of expensive and hard to find parts.
From what I can see browsing some older threads, a Dana 60 rear from a F250 would allow for improvements in drivability over the original Timkin rear but that still leaves the dilemma of finding suitable front hubs. F1 hubs and a 9" rear will mean an easier build with better options for wheels and brakes, and a truck better suited to Texas roads.
Still on the fence for now, and waiting to see what Chuck's has to offer. Not opposed to derating though the more I look at this.
From what I can see browsing some older threads, a Dana 60 rear from a F250 would allow for improvements in drivability over the original Timkin rear but that still leaves the dilemma of finding suitable front hubs. F1 hubs and a 9" rear will mean an easier build with better options for wheels and brakes, and a truck better suited to Texas roads.
Still on the fence for now, and waiting to see what Chuck's has to offer. Not opposed to derating though the more I look at this.
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Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Burbank, WA
If you want to keep your 8 lug wheels, there are good options for upgrading. As you noted, a later Dana 60 up to 72 will bolt right in and give you way better brakes and more friendly ratio availability. There is a company that makes a good front disc kit to match that's fairly reasonable and eliminate the front brake hassle. https://www.rusticdiscbrakes.com/pro...disc-brake-kit
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More Turbo
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If you want to keep your 8 lug wheels, there are good options for upgrading. As you noted, a later Dana 60 up to 72 will bolt right in and give you way better brakes and more friendly ratio availability. There is a company that makes a good front disc kit to match that's fairly reasonable and eliminate the front brake hassle. https://www.rusticdiscbrakes.com/pro...disc-brake-kit
Mountain Pass
Joined: Dec 2014
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Marc49
I have a set of 8 stud hubs, from a 51 Mercury f2. I have the whole front brake system, including Drums, Shoes, Hubs, Dust shields and backing plates.. One drum is good , the other has rust divots (but could be machined, I haven't checked) shoes look pretty good. Hubs are fine, still have bearings. The only major drama is the fact that its all in Canada....... Let me know what you think......thanks
Geoff.
I have a set of 8 stud hubs, from a 51 Mercury f2. I have the whole front brake system, including Drums, Shoes, Hubs, Dust shields and backing plates.. One drum is good , the other has rust divots (but could be machined, I haven't checked) shoes look pretty good. Hubs are fine, still have bearings. The only major drama is the fact that its all in Canada....... Let me know what you think......thanks
Geoff.
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