Hello to all of you boltheads.
My interest in this forum relates to a project now 8 years in process.
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This 1942 Chevrolet G506 was originally purchase as Army surplus by a neighbor who used it on his ranch rom the 1950s until he died about ten years ago. Then I got involved. Mechanically, it is all original except for a 12volt conversion, a new civilian style paint job, and the 235 bored and re-sleeved .090 over by a machine shop in Albuquerque. I have a small plaque somewhere commemorating that event.
I hope to keep it original, although, at this altitude- 7,778 feet, and with trips up to the National Forest in the 10,000 foot altitude range, this engine is reaching the limits of its ability. Rated at 85 HP originally, the altitude adjustment must be reducing power to around 60 HP. Never a speedy truck, Army manual indicates a top speed of 45 MPH, it is mighty pokey on the mountain grades here. Good thing I am retired and have time on my hands since it takes all day to get anywhere. Still has the original hydrovac single line brakes, so, speed has to be balanced with stopping ability and reliability. Naturally, the transfer case tends to pop out of gear on slow steep downgrades, so, there can be some real excitement coming down the mountain.
I have given some thought to a conversion to a 261. Also fantasized about a 292 or a Cummins Diesel- even a 4BT would be an improvement.
Anyway, I am looking forward to learning much. My last stovebolt powered truck was a 1950 Chevrolet with a 216 back in 1970.
