Hi. I'm a new member to the Stovebolt, although I have been checking out the web site for some time. Here's my project...
I am doing a complete frame-off restoration with the intentions of keeping the truck mostly stock with improvements in the driveline to keep up with today's traffic. I replaced the rearend with 4.10 "No Slip" gears out of a '70 Chevy C20. I have a 261 straight six out of a '59 2-ton truck mated up to a "New Process" A833 4-speed overdrive manual transmission out of an early 80's GM truck. The front end has been completely rebuilt with new "huck" style brakes all around.
Since my truck is a 3/4-ton, it seems that brake/suspension options are limited. Here are some questions I have:
1. I would like to convert to power drum brakes, but I have not found a conversion ket for 3/4-ton trucks, even for a dual chamber manual brake master cylinder. Brothers makes a firewall mount kit that should work, but it's a bit pricey. Any recommendations?
2. I would like to get rid of the old "single-action" shock absorbers simply because rebuilt ones are expensive. I like the nostalgia of the original shocks, but not so much if it's going to cost me $500.00. Any thoughts on shock options?
3. Is anyone else running a 261 with an NP-A833? It seems that the Saginaw "2-ring" 4-speed is a popular option, but I like the overdrive idea with the NP-A833.
Any thoughts and/or recommendations will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Dan M.
