The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop My new old 49 pickem up

hey guys
new to the web page, but find it very useful. I recently purchased a 1949 chevy pickup. Got it cheap, with lots of extras. Recently took off the old cab and put a 5 window cab on. My problems are in the brakes and wheels. I have a 8 lugs on the truck and one of my drums busted into two pieces. I would like to switch to six lug and have the option of disc brakes(instead of the old pad system on it now). I was also told that I could get alot of power out of a straight six. I am wondering if a 216 will work or do I need to start looking bigger. What do you think fella's

Josh, welcome to the stovebolt page. Sounds like you have a 3/4 ton frame - going with 6 lug (1/2 ton) running gear would be much easier if you had a 1/2 ton parts truck to swap front and rear axels - although I have no idea if the spring perch locations are the same width between 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton.

I know a lot of rodders prefer the 3/4 ton frames to build. As far as 6's go, if you want a vintage hot rod look, go for the GMC 302 or chev 261 inline 6. If you don't care really about a vintage look drop a 292 6 in it with a modern bell housing and easier choice of trannys. Lots of choices on which way to go. For a lot of inline 6 information go to http://www.inliners.org

Josh Welcome to the Page! Ken is right on as usual. 8 lugs means that you have 3/4 or 1 ton.
Do you have a 3 speed (colum shift) or a 4 speed (floor shift)?

Hey guys

Thanks for the feedback. I believe that it is a four speed. I know its manual shift.