So, I never was able to drive my stock '52 before I started on the restoration. Having heard the top speed limitations and recommendations on re-gearing, I did just that. With the combination of 3.55:1 gearing and 215/85-16 tires, my truck is pleasure to drive on relatively level ground. I have not had a chance to get it over about 40 mph or so (speedometer has not been re-geard, so I don't really know how fast I am going). But, hills are a different story and the truck is geared too high for the significant hills in my area (15% grade or so). Many of the steeper hills are a 1st gear only proposition.
What should/would I do different: Probably stay with the taller gears and then find a shorter (smaller diameter) tire closer to original size to help offset the taller gearing somewhat. But, if you live in relatively flat area, taller gears and taller tires will make the truck very enjoyable on the highway.
