[Johnny G D]

I want to use a 3.36 to a 3.5 gear ratio in my 1954 Chevy pickup. The stock 54 pickup rear end has a 55 inch backing plate to backing plate dimension. What later model rear end will fit in the truck and be in the right gear ratio?

[RWENUTS]

Check this out. Rear gear swaps and more.
http://www.patricksantiquecars.com/chevy_parts.html

[Johnny G D]

I should have eloborated. I will using a 700R4 Transmission and need to get rid of the enclosed driveshaft. Any help as to what other Chevy rear end will fit the 55 inch backing plate to backing plate dimension. Thanks for your help.

[RWENUTS]

Are you staying 6 bolt rims?

[Truckedup]

I have swapped in 73-87 10 bolt 6 lug rear axles two times.It's about 2 inches wider than stock but barely noticeable.A better choice is the 60's 12 bolt truck axle as it's almost the exact same width.The actual widths do vary so measure before buying.You have to install new spring perches and cut off some unused brackets.
The mounting flange to mounting flange width of the stock AD rear axle is 62 inches,backing plate distances are not really that important in this situation.

[Johnny G D]

Currently, the truck is all original with an enclosed drive shaft with a 390 gear ratio and 6 bolt lugs.

I would like to remove the original rear end and put a 5 or 6 bolt lug nut pattern with a 355 to 342 modern gear ratio and have an open drive shaft so I can hook up a 700 R4 transmission.

Someone told me the best gear ratio would be a 342. Positraction is optional.

Thanks for your help

[RWENUTS]

Here's link for rearend widths. You might need to blow up the chart a bit to see it. The best way to measure is from wheel mounting surface to surface.
http://www.myspace.com/bomberscarclub/blog/481908067

[Centerline]

Mid '70s Camaro or Firebird works perfectly.

Centerline
HotRodsAndHemis.com

"When buying a used car, punch the buttons on the radio. If all the stations are rock and roll, there's a good chance the transmission is shot." - Larry Lujack