Expert: Steve H - 6/26/2004

Question
 I have a '53 Chevy Sedan Delivery with a healthy 350 and a fresh 700R4 trans. I would like to change to a 9 inch rear end. I'm trying to find out which year and out of what model Ford is the best choice. I know that there are some differences in bearing sizes and spline count ect...  Any input you may have would be greatly appreciated. I know your time is valuable and I thank you very much.

Answer
John-

  Well...there's really very little difference in the 9" rears.  If it were me I'd go for the "big bearing" versions.  The bigger bearings allow for more surface area and hold everything together better.  That said, if you're not pushing huge power through the powertrain a "small bearing" version would work just fine too.  I wouldn't worry about years...my guess is that you'll need to order on from a company like Currie or Mark Williams since it will have to be fabircated to fit your '53 Chevy and still have the correct mounting points and brackets.  Currie especially is great for street-driven fabricated 9" rears...it just gets to be a bit expensive after you buy the housing and the third member.  Hope this helps.

Steve