The pinions are offset, 1. because the pinion is running on the side of the ring gear, and 2. so the Manufacturers don't have to make 2 different length axles. I know they do on some rear ends but it's not at all common. The offset is usually in the region of 1-1/4", 1-1/2". I would have thought the offset would have been the least of your problems on a T Bucket.
Regards,
Dunno about all readers but my 8" Ford out of a 79 Merc monarch is dead nuts centered .....the reason many are offset is because the WHOLE drive line is offset , engine , trans , driveshaft, diff. So that the driver has more room , maybe for the steering box , etc , it's a " make space " move ...
Just getting started (?) on a build.at age 77...... Ford 8.8 Fox body rear ends are plentiful.... Anyone use a particular year in their build/frame?