Ok, I am about to start into my first project which is going to be a 51 half ton. I have studied the archives so as to attempt not to ask stupid questions. The goal of this truck is to be a daily driver, in other words my main means of transportation. I have a few questions and/or clarifications to ask of the other board members.
I know for my application I need to get away from the original 216. I have a full pressure 235 that I could use. I understand that this motor is not a full flow motor. What difference will this make for a daily driver in reliability and longevity? Should I consider going with a 270, 304, etc., for my application for any other reasons than added power and torque?
I certainly want to go to a open drive line. I think my best option would be to switch the transmission back as opposed to going with a patricks gear set. I think that I need a 1955-1963 transmission to make the simplest swap. Is this correct? I want to use a four speed with a granny first, what model should I find that would work best for my application?
With the modifications that I want to do I think that disc brakes are a must. Does anyone make a stock looking wheel in a five lug pattern or one that I can use the original hub caps? I know that I can retain the six lug pattern but this some what limits my rearend options.
This going to be a long term ground up restoration and I would like to do it right the first time. I am currently in the planning stages and have yet to turn a wrench. This website is fantastic and I greatly appreciate all the help that I have received. I hope that as I learn more, I will be able to answer the questions instead of asking them all the time. Thank You!
