so is the '61-'64 frame different?
Front Axle
Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,389
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From: Massachusetts
I know this is an old thread, but I have a question...
My truck is a '64 F250 4x4.
Is a '76 -'79 front axle a direct bolt-in swap into a '61-'64 F250?
I know the frame from 65-79 is the same, so is the '61-'64 frame different?
I understand about matching gear ratios, otherwise parts will start flying!
So my biggest concern is the steering setup. Will the manual steering work? Or will I have to do some type of power steering swap so the drag link setup will work? I do like manual steering and non-power brakes (less stuff to worry about breaking).
I'd like to upgrade the axles to the 77-79 style so parts will be easier to find. Dana 60 front axle would be nice to match the Dana 60 rear axle. I think OX cable lockers would be a nice way to get good traction devices, and a nice lever could be made to be '64 era appropriate in style.
Imagine the 4 speed lever, transfer case lever, PTO lever, Dump bed lever, and the Front and Rear axle lock levers could be custom-made to match in witht he interior with neat shafts and cool *****.
My truck is a '64 F250 4x4.
Is a '76 -'79 front axle a direct bolt-in swap into a '61-'64 F250?
I know the frame from 65-79 is the same, so is the '61-'64 frame different?
I understand about matching gear ratios, otherwise parts will start flying!
So my biggest concern is the steering setup. Will the manual steering work? Or will I have to do some type of power steering swap so the drag link setup will work? I do like manual steering and non-power brakes (less stuff to worry about breaking).
I'd like to upgrade the axles to the 77-79 style so parts will be easier to find. Dana 60 front axle would be nice to match the Dana 60 rear axle. I think OX cable lockers would be a nice way to get good traction devices, and a nice lever could be made to be '64 era appropriate in style.
Imagine the 4 speed lever, transfer case lever, PTO lever, Dump bed lever, and the Front and Rear axle lock levers could be custom-made to match in witht he interior with neat shafts and cool *****.
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,060
Likes: 7
From: Glendale Arizona
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 783
From: Simi Valley, CA
1961/72 F100/350's have 33 1/2" rear frame rails, as do 1973/76 F250 4WD's and 1977 F250 4WD's assembled before serial number Y20,001.
From serial number Y20,001, there are no more High Boys, the width between the rear frame rails grew 4" to 37 1/2"
The front half of the frames are the same width 1961/79.
ALL 1973/79 F100/350's have 37 1/2" width rear frame rails except the High Boys and F350 Regular Cab Styleside Trailer & Camper Special's on the 140" wheelbase.
Senior User
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 199
Likes: 2
From: Southeastern Michigan
Resurrecting this thread again, how might a swap be done with a coil sprung 66 4wd truck? Will that same disc brake conversion kit work on this axle as well?
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Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,060
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From: Glendale Arizona
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