I figure it's your truck you can do with it as you like. You don't have anyone to please except yourself. Me I like restorations, hotrods, and resto-rods. I think it should be as safe to drive as you can make it and as dependable.. If that means upgraded brakes, works for me. In 51 the 235 was an option as it was in 41, most people can't tell the diffrence. With a gear upgrade like the 3:55 from patrick's. Freeway speeds with a 216 are possible at much less rpm. But if you feel the need for speed you should also think about stopping. My 41 1/2 ton has a 63 high pressure 235, stock 4 spd tranny and torque tube with 3:55 gears will cruise the California freeways at 70 mph at 1800 rpms. Disk front and drum rear and stops on a dime. This works for me. Like I said it's your truck make yourself happy. Just m 02Cents
