31 Ford Banjo rear end...problems

[gschluntz]

I looked in and joined last month while trying to get ready for GGs Nationals in Pleasanton...I was repairing my banjo and it turned into a scramble that didn't work...the ring gear I tore out of another pickup rear end was too worn and sounds terrible (after about 6 tries at shimming/making gaskets after I used up all I had from Mac's) except in reverse! I've given up on "swap meet" parts and I'm ready to use a QC rear end but need some help here in Northern California. Need to find George Vargus in Sacramento or Nick Tardell in Windsor or ?? I'm considering Halibrand or Winters but I want to use my axle bells (already modified) and diff/axles. Thus modified V8 center and new ring and pinion...Any ideas?

[gschluntz]

I decided to go to Winter Performance (Dick Spadaro supplied) and replace the center section, bearings, with the pre-setup quick change. It should come in this week or early next.
1. I wanted to have a new ring and pinion + ability to get a "road" ratio and a cruise ratio.
2. I am going to change the remaining bearings and the old races to make sure the set up is starting from the best point.
3. I wanted to use the differencial, axles and bells (they are modified to move the spring on top of the bell).
I'll post the outcome with pictures for those interested.

[skwurl]

Nice intro.