If you are going to keep the 235 then I would also keep the two speed rear as TPG and sweepleader have noted. My '57 two ton has the original 283 V8 with the four speed. 7.20:1 rear end and has plenty of power but 45 mph is top end.
1957 Chevrolet 5700 LCF 283 SM420 2 speed rear, 1955 IH 300U T/A, 1978 Corvette 350 auto, 1978 Yamaha DT175, 1999 Harley Davidson Softail Fat Boy
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