need advice on a front end axle assy

Hi everyone,

I'm attempting my first build on a hot rod and I would like some advise on a choice for a front end axle setup for my car. Its a 27 chrysler and it has the solid axle with 2 leaf springs in it now....I know I need to upgrade the axle but am not sure whether to try to find another solid axle that will fit onto my existing leaf springs or is it better to replace my front crossmember allowing me to use a cross spring setup like the fords. thanks in advance....Jim

 

You can get a dropped tube axle and weld pads on it for the dual springs or you could change the front crossmember and put a cross spring under it.... It really is just what you want to do.....

 

It might be hard to find a axle with spring pads 27" apart, but if you can find a tube axle that you can weld on the pads you can up grade your brakes on new spindles This would be easier than finding bearings, disks, backing plates, etc to fit the old spindles that are on the small side.

 

My buddy built a '30 Plymouth years ago using a Ford Econoline front axle, steering box and brakes... the car drove and stopped great.

You can also look for a 30's MOPAR tube axle... came with juice brakes and they look cool.

There's nothing wrong running parallel leafs... the stock set-up is fine... bushings and such are readily available to rebuild it. You just need to find a suitable axle and steering box.

Same for the rear axle set-up... the springs will work fine.

 

thanks for the replies gentlemen....I have an acquaintance here that has a tube axle with a 4" drop in it....its from a 34 Dodge I could probably make it work without too much trouble....I guess my only concern is how available are brake parts for this...anyone know?

 

Dodge truck brakes from a later series will prolly work fine. You need to spend some time measuring and playing with the older Dodge pick-ups