I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

....what is the "stock" rear axle considered...8" Ford....9" ford

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

They really are not considered either as what is now referred to as an 8 inch and 9 inch today both of which were introduced in later years (9 inch in 57, the 8 inch in a later year (probably around 62). The rear initially introduced in the 49 Ford is one that was used up until 56 in the sedans (Tbirds and wagons were different) I am sure there were some differences between the years and not even sure they had a "name"

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

Thanks Paul! I am led to believe IF my car has the "stock" '49 rear axle then it has 3.73 to 1 OR 4.10 to 1 gears in it from the factory. Have YOU found this to be true?

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

I don't know the rear ratios in the 49-53 era.

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

Those are the correct ratios for 1949 Fords.

Ken

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

Stock ratio is 3:73
With Overdrive is 4:10

Re: I just bought a '49 Ford Custom and am wondering
 

With a car with that many modifications, I would seriously doubt that it still has the original rear end. They are kinda weak and often replaced. If it is stock, it could be 3.55, 3.73, or 4.11. Cars with overdrive got the 4.11's, while most of the others were 3.73. My car, which was built in the St. Paul plant, has no overdrive and 3.55s. I believe 3.23's became available with later automatic transmissions that will swap in. You really have no way of knowing without getting down and dirty.

If it helps, at 60 mph, both my '51 Ford (225/75R15 tires) and '67 Corvette (215/75R15 tires) with 3.55 gears turn about 2500 rpm.