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So hears my problem,putting a flathead in the 31 with a stock 31 banjo rearend. I hear this will be a weak link,even with a stock flathead. Any ideas on what to do with this issue I mean breaking a rearend at 30 mph would be bad enough,but don't think it would be a good thing at 60 mph. Like to get some ideas about what to do.Thank's guys.
How about a Ford 8"? A popular rear end - lots of ratios available, good brakes, it's gotta be a better selection than a banjo break-o-matic! imho...
...or the Ford 8.8 which these days is probably more available in salvage yards then either an n 8 or 9
Can't disagree with anything Mike or DaveW says, but if you're stuck on retaining the banjo as I understand the weakest (most dangerous?) point was that if you broke an axle, and they were weak, you'd lose the broken stub, wheel & tire out the end, as well as trashing the housing on the way out. There are kits available to re-work the old banjo to add the axle retainer feature, and new axles & gears to increase the strength. I kind of like the "old school tech" articles, so I read them and try to remember where. Here's a couple that you might read through, and see which way you want to go - 1940 Ford Banjo Rearend - Rod & Custom Magazine ; http://www.streetmachineclub.com/Por...201-lowres.pdf
Swapping out the rear for a newer style will be the quickest and cheapest, but if you want the banjo there are ways....
I just wouldn't want to keep that 'A' rear end. Ratios, standard was 3.78, with many the optional 4.11. Then as Roger pointed out, the axle is weak. Next, if you can even get the hub and drum off, are the non-self energizing MECHANICAL brakes which with an adapter ring, a set of bearings and a set of '41-'48 backing plates can be converted. Now, if you were talking about a '41-'48 rear end, I might be more inclined to say use it even with the 3.78 or 4.11 ratios as the brakes are at least hydraulic and the axle shafts a tad stronger for the OEM 85/100Hp V8
Thanks guys for your help,I just found a 40 rearend with brakes ready to go just down the street heck yea.Going to pick it up today.