I know this thread has been idle for a while but I just found it so I will weigh in. Jerry has confirmed what many have never thought about. These trucks worked their guts out when they were current models. If the driver had to scream his way up a hill in "big low" gear (my Dad's term), that's what he did to get the load delivered. My 1936 1-1/2 ton has all original drive components. Fortunately it has the faster 5.43 gear ratio. It is pretty loud at 50 mph so I don't often drive at that speed. I like the way it sounds at 40 or 45 so that is my preferred speed. Besides, whats my hurry? Before I found the original platform bed, my truck was set up with a fifth wheel and pulled my 20 ft. Fruehauf flatbed. Even with no deck on the trailer, the load was noticeable and performance suffered. If my original engine lays down, I might consider a re-power, but nothing beyond a 216. I like everything about my old vehicles. Sound, smell, ride, it's all part of the package for me. Here are a couple of pictures of my rig. One in each format. I hope you like it.
