Hello All,
I have an untouched 1938 1.5 ton. .. seems rare to find. I have done a little reading but thought for my specific scenario I would just ask the experts here, so please no flames from those more learned. First, I really like the looks of the truck and want to keep it original BUT want to drive it daily. So I first thought:
A. I would keep it all original.. look for any potential safety issues and verify all components were working so I don’t get left on a side road.. I could go that route.. even down to the rims.. (split widow makers).. Tires are expensive.. looks like I ‘ve got 22”.. I am still learning.. Rear appears to be a 4.11. So my top speed will be 45mph.. I could deal with that and go side roads. But is that reliable for daily driver? .. probably 55 miles a day.. or every other day.. what breaks?
B. OR should I go with a different axle in the rear (which apparently entails new dually rims and tires.. ) bc the rear gears cant be changed..and a 235 or 292 engine?
If I go with “A” and change to “B” later.. are the tires a loss? Or do they make matching dually rears that will accommodate the tires I spend money to place on the old rims? Either way, it sounds like I should upgrade to at least front disk or dual breaking system for safety (I love the look of the rear drums and axle..) , 12v system, seat belts.
Side questions:
- What modern dually axle would fit my setup if going with “B”
- Are there less expensive tires?
- Can radials be put on split rim?
THANK YOU ALL!
