Hey dbone
I drive a 1950 one ton. Its a 216, with the 5.14 rear, and 17 splits. I drive the truck 35-40 miles a day, in a rural, and city environment. I get about 16 mpg, if I just let the truck determine my speed. I find I'm in fourth at about 20mph unloaded. So its not ever screaming. It runs really nice at 45mph. It'll easily do 50, even with two thousand pounds in the box.
I've got a short grain-box-flatdeck. I love the volume, but the nine foot bed is so cool. I'd go for it. When you park next to a half ton, they look so tiny and low. In fact, 15 inch wheels parked next to you will look like your hubcaps fell off. The big brakes are great as well. Even loaded it stops easier than my '49 pontiac.
If you have any specific questions, just PM me.
