The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 4-11 gears in a half ton

I have identified the engine in my 51 3100 as a 1959 made 235 with hydraulic lifters. I have a granny 4 speed and I just determined that the rear end is a '66 12 bolt with 4.11 gears.
I understand this means that the rear wheels move slowly in relation to the crankshaft,but what does this mean to me?Why would someone choose such a combination? What are the advantages of this in a 1/2 ton pickup? What are the drawbacks? I once owned a 68 1 ton international that was geared like this. I could drive the truck up a steep hill in first gear and someone could walk behind it to spread sand on the road from the bed.I let out the clutch with a full load of wood and it crawled uphill to the road without touching the gas pedal.
But what good is this for what is basically a passenger truck?The truck came to me with no bed and a handmade flatbed that was rotted. I rebuilt the flat bed and built a wooden shell around it with tool compartments for use in carpentry. I really don't need speed and will probably never drive it anywhere but on back country roads so I don't need speed.
I'd appreciate people's opinions.---Jack

They may have been using the ratio that was originally used in the truck. When it had the enclosed driveshaft originally it was a 4:10 ratio.
Good for hauling loads and such, but the top speed is probably 50-55mph range.
As you stated you don't need a high speed runner. I'd say as long as you are happy, that is all that matters.

John

That gear ratio is quite standard for 1/2 ton trucks. And for lots of 3/4 ton as well. Original ratio was the same.

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/1948_51truck/51ctsm0447.htm

Torque is what moves things. And with 4.11 to 1 things get moved. Later trucks have adjusted to higher road speeds thanks to the Interstate system. But before that...moving stuff was the goal.

When your truck was new the speed limit for trucks was 45 mph. (In Wisconsin, not sure about your state). If your satisfied leave things alone and enjoy the ride.

"If your satisfied leave things alone and enjoy the ride."--I will.
Thanks all.It makes sense and it's comforting to know they tried to keep it close to original. I don't need no interstates so I'm happy.---Jack

Granny gear works good in parades too. Ya just chug along without having to constantly use the clutch and brake.

I have the same trans as yours. a 235 and a 390 posi. I don't go over 60-65 and when I start out I start in 2nd gear with no issue.
It works great.