Good food for thought, thank you. So let me see if I get this straight.
There could be nothing wrong with the transmission. I could simply change the gear ratio on the rear end (or have it done, rather). However, if that is done, then I may lose that incredibly fun "umpph" or responsiveness, and it may not be enough to get the truck up the mountains at highway speeds (due mainly to vehicle weight).
It's not that I'm in need of hot rodding my truck up mountains, but from where I live I have two mountain ranges to go down and over before I get to a "town" to enjoy the fun responsiveness of an engine. So, mountainous, highway driving, is a must. As long as I can maintain 70 - 50 mph, I won't be run off the road. It did do 55 mph up the smaller canyon, so maybe I'm not in too bad of shape.
I think I'll try having the gear ratio changed just a bit first, and see where that gets me. If however, that doesn't work, then I'll save my 283 for a lighter-bodied vehicle. That would leave my '61 engineless.
I've had two different ideas run through my head, and I'd like to get opinions on them. For the fun of it, let's assume that cost is not an issue. (Now I'm really dreaming.) Which would make a more dependable and safe ride?:
1. Putting my truck body on a newer frame with newer engine, fuel injection, suspension, brakes, blah, blah, blah? ???
Or, 2. Making modifications, engine upgrades, different braking systems, etc... to the original truck? ???
I guess you can tell I'm not viewing this truck as a "purist". I have a '37 that will be a "to original" project. That way I get the best of both worlds. (That's called "can't really make up your mind - staying original or making modifications" - so you get 2 trucks. lol)
Just brainstorming here. Trying to see what other truck lovers would do, and what is possible. Thanks for the input and ideas.
Husker
