Classic/Antique Car Repair: 54 bel-air closed driveshaft.., monster garage, rearend

Question
My dad has a 54 Bel-Air 2dr. sedan..235 w/3spd. The tranny is really noisy and he wants to convert it to a newer 3spd and get rid of the closed driveshaft. I think he will have to change the rear end too since of course it is closed driveshaft rearend..Was just wondering if you or someone you know has done this before? Would just like to know what is involved in doing this changeover. Thanks!!...Keith.

Answer
You are right, he would have to change the rear end as well. Street rodders do this all the time and it usually requires some fabrication to make the parts fit. I don't know anyone personally that has done this on this particular car. As Jesse James of Monster Garage and Orange Choppers says, if you can weld you can do anything.
Brad