Model A Axle Options - NEED ADVISE

Hey Fellas, I'm new to A's and need some basic advise on what type of front axle I should/can use. Here's where I'm at - I just bought a 30/31 Roadster body and frame. The frame has all cross members and axle components still in place - it's bare BONE STOCK and in great shape. I also have a good friend that's giving me a great deal (steal actually) on a 40 Ford font dropped axle with everything minus the backing plates. Here's where I get stumped... Should I drop and/or modify my stock axle/front end and run with the A equipment or go for the 40 front dropped axle my buddy has? I want to build something w/out fenders that is nostalgic/traditional using a 8BA Flathead and keep cost on the low side as best I can. I've ordered "the book" but hear that it mostly references 32's. Also, if anyone has a swapping list or if there is a post that already address this I would appreciate it. I've done the search's and cant find anything. Please don't ask about the rear end I plan to use because I haven't even get to that yet... Suggestions for the rear would be also appreciated if you have them.

Thanks ahead of time!

JP



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you could go with a banjo rear from a 40-48 ford car?..it'll have juice brakes and enough clearance and will hold up to the flathead.I would definately go with the '40 ford front end model A brakes were all mechanical and marginal at best.If the '40 ford front end you have is complete with axle and ,hubs,kingpins i would go with that and get some backing platespretty easy to find,other wise you can get spacer rings from Speedway motors that let you use juice brakes with Model a front spindles...are you suiciding the front end or cross steering it?(vega)...

 

I don't know what I'm doing at this point... I'm mainly looking for info on what works and what doesn't or hasn't for anyone else. I have a steering column (cross steering) that was thrown into the deal when I bought that project but again, i don't want to rule out any other options.
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Id go
1. Dropped A axle
2. A spring
3. Split 40 wishbone
4. 40 spindles and brakes

 

1940 rear ends are a little narrower and look better than 46-48s on A's........

 

Alot depends on how much lowering you are looking for. IIRC, the later axles have a wider track that you will have to figure in if you go that way. I used a stock 32-36 axle with a 2" drop over the a axle to give you seome ideas (see my build thread).