40 rear in a Model A

Is there any combination of facyory parts that can be used to install a 40 Ford rear in a Model A ch***is so the rear wheels are in the stock location? A gentleman was by my shop this past week wanting to know about this. The only way I knew was to weld mounts to the 40 housing. He had been told to extend the frame. Would appreciate any feedback on this matter. Thanks Bob

 

No combination of factory parts that I know of. You'd only have to extend the frame (7 1/2" if I recall correctly) if you kept the '40 "spring behind axle" configuration. Mounting the spring on top the axle would require shackle brackets to be welded on but would retain the stock wheelbase.

Bob

 

They are also 2.5 inches wider than Model A

 

You can use aftermarket spring hangers, (Socals' are my favorite), and shorten the torque tube approximatly 22 3/4" to make it work. Also remember the rear brakes are juice on the '40. Other than that it's pretty easy. I don't know of any combination of factory parts that makes it a bolt in.

 

Some have been known to cut the spring mounts off an ol' set of Model A bells and weld/bolt them to the '40 rear... Does that count for "all factory parts"???

 

^^^
Thats the one I was thinking of. It has been posted here, but I can't formember who. Chris? maybe.

Worked well.

 

Bobby,

A fabricator with your skills should be able to make the necessary spring perches.

The "Bible", also known as "How to Build a Traditional Ford Hot Rod", by Mike Bishop and Vern Tardell goes into considerable detail on swapping out a Model A rear end for a later, stronger banjo. I have a copy that I can loan you the next time you come down out of the hills.

 

well....that's cool....

 

just did mine a while back. its in my build thread. 7 3/8"

 

I would like to thank each and everyone for their reply. This gives me several options to think about. THANKS again Bob