The Stovebolt Site Forums Welcome! Welcome Centre New Jersey Forum Member (New)

I have been restoring early ( 1956 to 1962)Corvettes for many years and decided to try something different.

I have purchased a 1941 Chevy 1/2 ton pickup. The truck is in remarkable condition. It is as original as one could hope to find after so many years. The plan is to restore the truck keeping it as original as possible. The truck runs and drives.

My problem is quite sinple: I know less than zero about these trucks!

After buying the truck I came to realize that the differential gear ratio is such that it will pose a problem when driving the New Jersey highways.

I would like to change out the rear to a higher gear ratio such as a 3:55.

Have any of you undertaken this task? If so, I would love to hear from you as to what is involved.

Thanks,
Ed

Welcome Ed, you came to the right site if you're interested in learning more. Very many people have the same thought as you about their ratio. I cannot speak for the '41 model, but I put a 3.55 unit in my (1953) rear diff. They are available, but check for your year. Some say it's an easy swap, others (like me) took it to a machine shop or other qualified mechanic. Be sure to visit the driveline forum, either search for this info or pose your question there. Good luck.

Leo

Ed, welcome to the Stovebolt. I know with your experience you'll be an asset to this site....and the those years of Corvette's are my favorite.

Leo is right about asking questions in the driveline. Its the one thing I admonish folks to do...post the questions in the most appropriate forum for the best answers and help. Think about it for a few days, or weeks, to decide what you want to do. To change the gearing and get highway speeds many change the entire rearend which usually means a different tranny or even engine. Once you decide the folks where will help you get there.

Good luck and see you around the garage.

As a side note your post will be "moderated" for the first 4 or 5 post. This is to help weed out the spammers and such, but after that you will be able to send private messages (PM"S) and enjoy all the Bolt has to offer. A little time checking out the tech tips, the gallery and learning to do a search will be helpful tools as well.
There are other bolters in N.J. so watch for them. You may have one next door. A fellow bolter from N.J. just helped me with something I needed.

Gentlemen:

As suggested, I have posted my question in the driveline section. I'm confident that I will receive some good advice.

Ed

Where in NJ are you located?