Interesting discussion. Thought I would add my 2 cents.
I love my 1953 3600. Very strong - probably overbuilt but who cares? I cannot imagine why anyone would want to cut it down. If you want a 3100 size, why not buy a 3100. Nor have I found any parts issues. Between what's out there on this great site, what's on the bay, and what's in the junkyards, I have always (so far) found what I needed easy and cheap.
I am now mounting a side spare without worrying about a "dimpled" fender. Try that with a 3100. I have replaced all the wheels and tires, and now run "old school" 16 inch rims with 215/85s - diameter is over 30" - and old school 8-lug hubcaps that fit very nice on my clips. Yes, they do clear the rear hubs. Also changed the gears to 4.10. I needed help with that, but not an insurmountable task.
Net result is that I picked up about 12 highway mph at same engine speed. Now she cruises nicely. Four speed, double-clutch, living the dream.
Harry
