I'd like to invite you for a ride along with me in my '46 2-ton. Just a short hop up the road to get the oil splashed up where it belongs. Yes that's a "crash box" 4 speed paired with a spicer 5831C. Both boxes are not synchronized. Its not as easy as it looks, but its also a skill that can be learned by anyone. A little practice will gain big confidence. I don't recommend downtown San Antonio for your first test drive out of the garage though.
I've often seen posts debating the usefulness and drive-ability of such a setup. Having a truck with the setup, I can say that it is a good combination. The under drive is useful for quite a few situations. The ability to split shift is useful when hauling a load and trying to get it moving. The overdrive can mean you almost make the speed limit in a few more speed zones lol (Although I agree that brake system upgrades are a must if you want to push more than 50 mph in a truck of this age much less with a load). A lot of the time, running without a load in traffic, and on relatively flat ground, I make three shifts to get up to speed: 3rd under, 4th under, and 4th over. If theres no traffic, i'll start in 2nd under as its easier on the clutch.
With a HEAVY load, starting in 1st under, then 2nd under, 3rd under, 3rd direct, 3rd over, 4th under, 4th direct, and finally 4th over works out ok. Unloaded, I have fun with the people in parking lots with 1st under, 1st direct, and 1st over.
On most surfaced roads starting in 2nd under is not that difficult even with a substantial load along.
Running empty its fun to shift through all 12 gear combinations when giving someone a ride for the first time
Wait how many times did you shift?
If anyone would like details on the setup i'll be more than happy to answer any questions.
In the video, I miss a shift and recover it, can you spot when?
Ride along on YouTube
