Guys,

I just purchased a 9" ford rear end (stock) from a 1957 Ford Fairlane 4 door hardtop. My question is, will this directly bolt into my 1956 Fairlane club sedan? This rear axle is 1 inch wider and the spring mounts appear to be about a 1/2 wider than my 56.

Also will my springs fit without moving the spring mounts on the axle?

I know I will have to change the rear yoke on the drive shaft to fit the 57 joint.

Any input will be appreciated.



Jim

  Jim Rowe Elkhorn, NE

Jim , i dont see why you would have any problem....springs will move 1/4 inch with out any problem...Your tires will be a half inch closer to the rear fenders,  which might be a problem if you running over size tires...other than tat its a bolt in...................Sam                                                          .Florida..west central

56 victoria

Im surprised to hear that the 57 rear is one inch wider. I put a 57 rear in my 54 Ford, the width was exactly the same as the 54 rear.



I had the spread the springs a little, but it fit.

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

Like Paul, I thought the ‘55 thru ‘59 housings were the same width; memory says  ~52 7/8” without the backing plates.  Wasn't aware of the '54 width but also sounds like it's the same.  But from experience, the ’57 and ’58 nine inch car housings are a direct bolt in in the ’55 and ’56 Ford cars.  Spring perches are in the correct position and the ‘55/’56 parking brake cables will also fit right in.  The ’59 housing is also the same width but the spring perches are outboard just enough that the springs require some outward arching or bowing in which to make them fit without relocating the perches.  When switching to the 9” rearend, the rear u-joint on the drive shaft will need to be upgraded or changed out to accommodate the 9” yoke offerings.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)