Hi all, I'm Richard, a new member and I was told this is the place to go for advice on modifications.
Here's what I've gotten myself into. My wife just purchased a 1942 3/4-ton pickup. (I'll try to attach some pictures.)
She has given me an objective to make this thing run like a modern truck without it looking any different than it does now. Here's what I'm starting with:
The truck is in great shape with a frame-off restoration (5 years ago). The engine and trans were swapped sometime in the past to an early, but recently rebuilt-to-stock 350 w/Turbo-350 auto transmission. The rest is mostly original, including the 6-lug artillery wheels. The brakes are also original, but had a booster added at some point and stops okay for a truck. The truck spent its entire life in California until last week and is surprisingly solid.
Here's what we want to get to......
It needs to be a safe and reliable regular driver, including interstate trips. It should have impressive power and speed. And very important that it must still appear stock/original.
Can it be done? Just brain storming a bit, here's what I came up with:
Power steering (wife insist) Front disk brakes (safety) New Crate Engine (EFI and fuel injection) and new automatic transmission (I'm thinking around 450HP with similar torque...suggestions, opinions???) Front suspension/steering improvements Heater Air Conditioning because we live in South Carolina (Does Vintage Air have a recommend kit? Anyone else?) Do I need a different rear axle? Suspension? Diff?
What else should I consider...or not consider. I'm not concerned about cost so much as making sure things are done right with respected and proven components that will last.
Thanks, I appreciate all the help I can get.
Rich B.
1942 3/4 ton Pickup, 1965 Shelby Cobra replica (420 HP, 410 ftlbs, 2,400 pounds, and VERY few "Ford" manufactured parts.) From coastal South Carolina, Myrtle Beach area.
