Technical 51 Henry J Front Axle Question

I was wondering if anyone used a '47 Ford F1 axle in a Henry J drag car? Or... Other than '61-65 Econoline, what other options are out there?

Thanks

 

If wheel mounting surface to wms works and you can find brakes for it, then why not.

 

If yo have frame rails (spring perch width) and wheel surface measurements (wheels placed where you want under the body) and maybe even drop, you can search for those attributes. There is also the aftermarket, but again you need more than "Fits Henry J".

 

Thanks guys.. i'll be mocking it up this weekend see if it works. Fingers Crossed

 

If you decide to go tube axle, 48 inch king pin width is almost identical to stock Henry J width.

 

Such a bitchin car!!! I've seen this before but dont know much about it. Is this your HJ?

 

Yes, a 51, I've got an extensive build thread here on the forum
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/finally-got-a-henry-j.517931/

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If the stock axle is 48" kingpin width, then add 8" to wheel mounting surface, or maybe 9" with disc brakes. That means the Econoline axles will be too wide as they're around 61" wide at WMS to WMS. And the Chevy Greebriar vans are the same. The early '49-'54 Chevy truck axles are about 1.5" narrower, so closer, and might work. I've never used an early F1 axle, so you'll need to measure it before buying. But I see no reason they wouldn't work other than the larger bolt pattern. But that can be changed if you convert to disc brakes, and use a smaller pattern.

 

The 42-47 pickups use the same spindles as the 42-48 passenger cars, there are numerous brake options.

 

I used an F1 axle and springs on my Henry J. It's not a direct fit but with some fabricated mounts it worked well.

 

Awesome!!! I'll be doing the same. @28rpu What did you do with your rear suspension?

 

Mine has a 53 Chevy Truck axle.