Need help o 49 1/2 ton chev

[Oldpatt]

This is my first posting, so bear with me. I have recently bought a 49 Chev 1/2 ton. Back in the late 60's, a 55 chev v-8 engine was installed and mounted to what appears to be the stock 4 spd , closed driveline, transmission. I am considering changing the transmission and rear end to a GM automatic and rear end. What GM rearend comes closest to being the proper width? I would like to change both front and rear bolt pattern to late chev pattern. 4 3/4 I think.
I am also having a tough time backing the brake shoes off enough to remove the brake drums. Does the brake adjusting star wheel turn right or left to back the shoes off? The truck has been setting since 1971, so I suppose it has a right to be contrary.
Thanks for any help or advise you will share.
Oldpatt

[CAL 58 GMC]

I'm not sure, but welcome to the board! I'm sure someone here will have some answers for you.

[solidaxel]

Welcome Pat,
I used a 75 Camaro on my 55 1st series, but a Monte Carlo I am told will work also and so will a Nova.
Why are you removing the drums if you are going to replace the rear end. just wondering! If you get rear end from the junk yord get the drive shaft also

[Oldpatt]

It's the front brake drums I am trying to get off now. I have a set of tires and wheels mounted so that it can be moved easier if I can get the drums free. It is almost impossible to roll in its present state. Thanks for the response - I should have been more specific.
Oldpatt

[Daniel U]

I used an '87 IROC Camaro rear w/ disc and posi/10 bolt for my '54. I'm buying a TCI front end for it soon. Check out my link....

[solidaxel]

On the front drums you might trying to remove the hydrolic brake lines and this might let the brake shoes colapse enough to remove the drums, just a thought. For 5 lug hubs you will look for passenger car hubs from 47 or eailer to 54 The beaings should be the same .

[pgf545]

On the rear end there are several ideas I have seen on here. Alot of people are using the S-10. I don't think it matters much as long as the width is right. You should be in the 58"-60" range, we used a 9" Ford but when we had the housing made up we had it done to 62". I have a feeling when all is said and done we will get it cut down some, but that could be a while...lol. I don't have any ideas on the brakes except maybe try and break the pins that hold the shoes on to the backing plate. Then maybe you can pull the drums off and the springs will pop off. Most of the time the shoe material will kinda weld itself to the drum causing it to stick...well it doesn't actually weld, but you get the idea. I have also seen the shoes wear into the drum causing them to be difficult to get off. Good luck.

Bernie