Wheel stud upgrade, 7/16 to 1/2 ???

[427TJ]

I am close to pulling the trigger on a bolt-in Strange S-60 (Dana) for my '55. They have 1/2-20 wheel studs and my stock '55 diff has 7/16-20.

Question: Will my vintage five-spokes still bolt up over the new 1/2 studs? There is the usual slop when I mount-up the wheels and the 7/16 lug nut shanks take up that slop between the studs and wheels. With a 1/2 stud I know I will need to run new lug nuts (will run open end) but what happens to that slop? I looked at Summit's selection of 1/2-20 open-end lug nuts and the shanks seem thinner to handle the "slop" situation I am describing. Any advice or experiences with this???

Sorry if I sound stupid on this but I want to get these questions anwered before I take out my Visa card and call them!

Oh, and with a 30-inch tall tire and a 2:20 first gear (M-21 and 22) would a 4.56 or 4.86 (S-60 gear choices) have much difference? With the 30" tall tires on there now and 4.11s I have to slip the clutch somewhat to get the car going. (Long-duration cam doesn't help either!) It's not bad but it needs a lower ratio in back. 4.56 or 4.86 or doesn't matter enough to really tell?

Street/show car, maybe a track run for fun once it's all figured out.

Teaser photo: