[Bob Carriere]

I can confirm the difference indicted between the lighter 2 ton axle and the heavier HD axle.... the heavier one as a small hub cap held in place by 3 small bolts....... the lighter axle as a stamped sheet metal cap screwed on.

Now according to the master parts catalogue the lighter bicycle ball bearing axle was used until at least until 1951....... not sure how light/weak it was but was used post war on 2 ton trucks.

The roller bearing equipped axles were commonly referred to as "Timken axles"

I know form experience that the roller bearing will not install in a lighter 2 ton axle..... the roller/Timken is .093 larger both on the axle spindle and in the bearing race that fits inside the hub......

Does anyone have a picture of the HD front axle with the tire removed......very curious about the HUB design and brake drum style.

Would be curious to hear from you if you have looked up a raised casting number on the I beam of your respective trucks....... about the middle of the axle inside the H section of the beam..... as it may give a clue as to the year of the truck.....

for example if it says 3681642 it is 1946 to 51

.....365291 is a 2 ton 1940

the heavy duty roller axle should have 3651011 which denotes the series 18 Chevrolet COE

Let me know if the shoe fits????

Bob C.