My name is eddie have a 48 buick super 248, 3 speed on the tree, torque tube which sucks. I heard 62 on up buicks 3rd member does interchange with a 48, 62 on up is open drive line
Optional Information: 1948 buick super 248 Already Tried: I picked up a 72 nova rear end in case the 62 or later 3rd member doesn't fit the 48 I putting saganaw 4 speed
Hello Eddie !
"The "torque" that is referred to in the name is XXXXX XXXXX of the drive shaft, along the axis of the car, but that applied by the wheels. The design problem that the torque tube solves is how to get the traction forces generated by the wheels to the car frame. The "torque tube" transmits this force by directly coupling the axle differential to the transmission and therefore propels the car forward by pushing on the engine/transmission and then through the engine mounts to the car frame." [ wikipedia]
So, understanding this it is important to note that it is your coil spring construction that won't allow the interchange. You won't get any traction!
In my opinion, if you want to get away from that frustrating torque tube, go with the '72 rear end. You will need to weld some leaf spring brackets, and have a custom drive shaft built.
Good luck with your great project !
thanx rick now do u know if the 3rd member from the 62 on up buicks would work if not I thought may be using ladder bars for the 72 rear end what do u think of that
The '62 and up third members are a different bolt pattern. I do like your idea on the ladder bars !
Experience: 36 years building autos,from '30 Whippets to '60's and '70's Vettes and Mopars