The 47-55 first series trucks are great and I am currently building a 51 as well. I am kind of a purist and I hate to see these trucks chopped, clipped, and molested. I know this the HiPo page but I just wanted to throw in and idea for you. In my truck I am going to maintain the original straight axle and build a 235 with some 50's style hop ups. I guess basically what I am building is a "resto-rod" where the goal is to save originality where ever possible, but make certain upgrades to make it fun to drive and safe as possible. For me that includes discs brakes, gas tank relocation, power steering, rearend upgrade, possibe trans upgrade, and the aformentioned engine upgrades. I used to want to build a full on rod but as I have gotten older(23), I just look at these trucks as pieces of history. Do what you want, just my input.
