The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Engine, Final Drive upgrades for higher performance.

Hey, I have a 54 chevy 1 ton 3800. I haven't gotten it running yet but was wondering what were some ways I could improve the preformance of the truck so it can go over 45 mph. Currently it is all stock with a 235 engine in it. Any opinions on different gearing in the rear end or maybe overdrive trans? The 235 is in pretty rough shape so an engine swap could be a option.

Let me know what you think.

"45 MPH" is a myth, sort of like the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, and honest politicians. I owned a 1959 3800 for several years, with virtually the same 235 engine, SM 420 trans, 4.56 rear end, and 18" wheels that your 54 probably has. I had no problem cruising at 55-60 MPH, or more when necessary. I saw 65-70 on a downhill a few times, and the engine didn't come unglued. The truck will take it, if your tender ears can stand the noise. Yes, they make noise at speed- - - - -most people are just too timid to push the loud pedal.
Jerry

Swapping 4.10 gears in the original axle is a simple and very worthwhile swap.
http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/axles/1%20Ton%20Upgrade/

Even though you can push the truck as it is and go faster like Jerry says the faster gears will make it more fun to drive at speed and burn a little less fuel.

Another option is swap the entire rear axle out for the right 14 bolt rear axle which have a range of gear ratios and brake options. Several discussions on the forum, check the 1 ton section.

I've done the first and planning to do the second, both have advantages and can work well.

BJ60,

Here's what others have to say on your topic:

https://www.stovebolt.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/1194516/Re:_1953_Chevy_Truck_3100_top_.html

My Stovebolt is a '36 Chevy pickup with a much more anemic engine than yours. I swapped in a 3.55 rear gear set and even the little 207 engine pulls the 3.55 gears easily:

http://vcca.org/forum/ubbthreads.php/topics/334876/1936_Chevy_3.55_rear_gear_conv

The truck in question is a 1 ton which has different options for gear and axle swaps than the 1/2 ton trucks.
1 ton trucks also weigh more and have tall tires which are factors in what axle gear ratio you can get away with. 3800 gearing is not to be compared to a 3100.

Thank for all the info. That should help me go a little faster. If I get a 4.1 gear ratio will it wear more on the transmission or clutch?

Surely no wear that one would notice, as long as one puts the trans in neutral at stoplights.

Ed