[GARY HOOTEN]

I am in the process of installing a T.C.I. rear 4-link coil-over set -up in my 1955 F100 frame. Their axle brackets are designed for a 3" axle. I was originally going with a "85" S-10 axle which has a 2 5/8" diameter. Now I need a 3" dia. axle, at least 55" between the backing plates, centered third member and a ratio around 3.0 or 3.50 for high way driving.
I will be installing a SBC 350 and 700r4.
I just thought of another question: How good are the original 1955 F100 axles? Strength is probably good, but I wonder about 70 mph driving for long distances? It is a Dana 44.
So.......What chevy 10 bolt axle can I use?

[big gear head]

All of the 8.5 car rear ends have 3 inch tubes, along with the 8.2 rear ends. The first gen Camaro and '68 up Nova rear ends are 60 inches wide overall and the 2nd gen Camaro rear ends are 61 inches wide. The 60 inch rear ends are going to be around 55 inches between the backing plates, which is not a good way to measure rear ends. You need to measure the total width.

The Dana 44 is a very good rear end. Maybe you should put new bearings in it and use it.

[GARY HOOTEN]

First I want to thank you very much for your wealth of information. I really appreciated it's thoroughness of subject. You cannot believe how much unsuccessful internet searching I have endured on this subject! And for that to stop.......... I thank you again.
It's to bad that old Dana 44 has 4.89 gears and 2+9/16 tubes. It sure would save me some cash..........