I'm converting my '31 Ford to an open driveline and to do this I've got a '42-48 Ford pickup rearend (open driveline) and a '40 Ford car rearend. The pickup rearend is too wide, so I need to use the bells and axles from the car rearend with the center section from the pickup. When I took both rearends apart to combine them I found that the spider gears in the '40 rearend were pitted from moisture. I figured I'd just use the pickup spiders because they look perfect, but the tooth count is different. So here is my dilema......can I shorten the pickup axles so I can use them along with their spiders?? Is it alright (safe) to cut a reweld an axle? I know they probably make brand new shiney stuff but I'd rather use the perfectly good stuff I've got sitting on my garage floor if possible. I've searched the web and HAMB and haven't had luck finding anything on this topic so I started a new thread. If anyone knows of an existing thread to point me to that would be great as well.
OK, so where does one find those spiders?? I've checked several old Ford parts suppliers online and haven't come up with anything yet. Any suggestions?
RIGHT HERE: www.earlyfordstore.com They have them, call and ask for what you need. I have seen them on the shelf.
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