I went from a 216/3-speed to a 261/4-speed in my 1953 3100, with big thanks to Hotrod Lincoln!
Bottom line: It's still an old truck constrained by a 4:11 rear and stock suspension and drives largely the same.
Going from 92 hp to 140 hp, yes you definitely notice a difference throughout the RPM band, however it's not an incredible difference. It pulls harder at wide open throttle in all gears, and can easily pull a hill at 20mph in 4th gear given the extra torque.
I'm certainly no expert, but I have driven a few of these trucks in stock configuration, 1/2 tons and 3/4 tons. From a driving standpoint, I just didn't see a huge difference between a 235 and a 261.
If you're in Kansas City any time, hit me up and come drive mine.
