I run a 1956 chevy 3200 long bed it now has a 6.0 with 6 speed trans.
It will run hwy speeds no issue but when it first went in all stock front end and original parts aka old it was a hang on tight ride.
Adding a sway bar on the front made a large improvement in turns. At least for driver feedback it took a lot of roll out. replacing the springs, and shackles, shocks made the ride much better. having tight suspension made it better.
At some point the cross rod on the steering got bent and became out of alignment with toe out. Since it was a straight axle it will continue to track fine in that situation but any bump would pull you all over the road.
A scarry situation when your doing 75 down the interstate.
So a good alignment is a critical part. I cannot stress this enough. it was a massive difference.
We did convert to power steering. and recommend some added caster. this improved some steering as well.
Also note. We did notice some flex in the main steering knuckle arm on driver side because we run some really wide tires compared to stock. We upgraded the steering arms to the 3/4 ton version they bolt right in but are not reproductions and originals are really hard to find it took us a while finding some in someone's back yard pile of truck parts out west.
It now has power brakes and disc up front drums in rear and stopping is now a much better situation as well.
This truck was my sons daily driver in Atlanta area from 16 all thru high school. 4 years of college at clemson running home and back up and down 85 with all the construction. At 25 he need a more "reasonable" vehicle.
Pot holes was both hands on wheel but otherwise paying attention and knowing your truck well running 75+ was not a issue on good roads and 65/70 was no issue on most any road type.
Last edited by hcb3200; 08/07/2025 2:06 PM.
