Lets call it what it is, not an early A rear axle.
Rusty has an A body small bolt rear axle. This axle was the same axle in A bodys from 1963-1972. All these axles have the same 9 bolt cover. So there is no such thing as an early 7.25. Its the same A body rear end from 63-72.
1973-1976 7.25" rear axle had the big bolt pattern, and came on A body's with disc brakes.
1973-1976 A body's also had an 8.25 rear axle. It was used for high performance models, replacing the 8 3/4.
I never said anything about a Dakota. Choose your parts wisely.