So I have a 1982 dodge d150 short bed that's been going under a ton of modifications the last few years. It came stock with a 225 slant six and a A833 4 speed with over drive. My goal is to eventually have a really heavy half ton... I want a different rear axle without breaking the bank. The truck currently sits on top of 30 inch tires and a 8 1/4 rear axel that has 3.23 gears. I'm currently building a 318 atm and plan on putting it in soon. Keeping the transmission I have. I'm babbling, my question is what rear axle would work easily. Like could I put a jeep axle underneath? I live in Central michigan and for whatever reason I struggle finding parts in my area..

 

Maybe find a B3500 1 ton to swap out..... Cheers

 

So no jeep axle?

 

I dont think they are wide enough? " From Backing plate to backing plate?

 

I swapped an 8 3/4 axle from a 60s Dodge pickup into my 1977 D150, it came with a 3.55 gear but my 77 had the smaller 5 on 4 1/2” bolt pattern. For your application I would recommend a 9 1/4 from a newer pickup, early 2000s 3.55 gears and limited slips are common.

 

That means welding

 

I believe it is a bolt in, both trucks are leaf spring setups.