Hello,
I have enjoyed many of the posts over the years….great advice on a great subject…old trucks. So here goes my first post on the boards. I have a 1951 chevy pickup, series 3100, with the original 216 engine, 6 volt system and rear end. The tranny was changed out from a 3 speed column to a 4 speed floor prior to my purchase. I have done work to it over the 12 years I have owned it, so it runs and drives pretty good. I still use it to carry items such as hay bales, camping gear, canoes and other items. I take it on the highway, which brings me to my question. It runs at a high rpm at 50 mph because of the 4.11:1 rear end. I am comfortable at that speed given the trucks braking and handling capabilities, but would love to bring the rpm’s down a bit to lessen the strain on the engine. I was looking into the 3.55:1 ring and pinion installation and wanted to know if anyone has done this with an original 216 engine and how much it dropped the rpm. I realize the parts and installation kit cost close to $800 alone, but it would be worth it if it brings the revs down.
Thanks
blaise
