I have a Ford 9" in my '51. It came out of a Torino, but I'm not sure of the year. With 15 X 7 wheels and 4.5" of backspacing, the 255-70 tires are a perfect fit. Had to grind off the shock mounts and spring perches, but it's bulletproof in a light pickup like these. The only drawback to the Ford for GM guys is the bolt circle, but if you're going with a new front end, you can specify 5 on 4 1/2 up there too (assuming your buying new wheels).