Thanks for the correction and links, Frank50

My guess is that the transmission crossmember was needed on the 1/2 trucks, due to the strength (or lack of strength) of the 47-53 1/2 ton rear engine frame-crossmember?

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.