The Stovebolt.com Forums Home | Tech Tips | Gallery | FAQ | Events | Features | Search
Fixing the old truck

BUSY BOLTERS
Are you one?

Where is it?? The Shop Area

continues to pull in the most views on the Stovebolt. In August alone there were over 22,000 views in those 13 forums.

Searching the Site - a click away
click here to search
New here ??? Where to start?
Click on image for the lowdown. Where do I go around here?
====
Who's Online Now
10 members (TUTS 59, homer52, Guitplayer, Hotrod Lincoln, 32vsnake, Charles in CA, Peggy M, 46 Texaco, 2 invisible), 556 guests, and 1 robot.
Key: Admin, Global Mod, Mod
Forum Statistics
Forums66
Topics126,776
Posts1,039,271
Members48,100
Most Online2,175
Jul 21st, 2025
Step-by-step instructions for pictures in the forums
Previous Thread
Next Thread
Print Thread
#1238555 10/09/2017 9:41 PM
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
I
New Guy
New Guy
I Offline
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
I can't find anyone who sells new gears for my 49 3600. Was in a barn for almost 50 years and is running really well. Took new wiring, completely rework inside, new fuel tank and pump, and it's awesome. Only problem is I can only drive about 40 mph. I might push it up to 50 but this old 216 most likely won't last long if I do that. I love the fact that is is completely original just like the one I learned to drive in the mid 60's, however I really would like to cruse at 50 or 55 without working the engine so hard?

One guy who seem to know a lot suggested I find a Corporate 14 bolt 3/4 rear end and make sure it was the right width. Is that good advice?

Love my truck. Larry
Attachments
Truck.jpg (212.33 KB, 296 downloads)


1949 3600 216 4 speed (completely original)
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5,096
E
Crusing in the Passing Lane
Crusing in the Passing Lane
E Offline
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5,096
Ff 14 bolts are plentiful, cheap, modern ratios, good brakes. Check wms to wms.

Cab and chassis dually axles are probably the best width.

Ed

Last edited by EdPruss; 10/10/2017 3:04 AM.

'37 GMC T-18 w/ DD 4-53T, RTO-610, 6231 aux., '95 GMC running gear, full disc brakes, power steering, 22.5 wheels and tires.
'47 GMC 1 ton w/ 302, NP-540, 4wd, full width Blazer front axle.
'54 GMC 630 w/ 503 gasser, 5 speed, ex fire truck, shortened WB 4', install 8' bed.
'55 GMC 370 w/270, 420 4 speed, grain, dump bed truck from ND. Works OK.
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,400
ODSS Lawman
ODSS Lawman
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 1,400


SWEET
Sergeant At Arms: Old Dominion Stovebolt Society
BUNS?!?!?!Where we're going, we don't need no buns.....
1950 GMC 450
1951 Chevy 1/2-Ton
The GreenMachine
In the Stovebolt Gallery
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 27
J
Wrench Fetcher
Wrench Fetcher
J Offline
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 27
I agree with what SWEET has in his reply. I have a 1950 3/4 ton that originally came with the 4.57:1 rear end. I found a '68 3/4 ton in a local salvage yard and took the "third member" out of it. There was immediate improved gas mileage and higher speeds. I also put some steel belted radials on the truck that are P265/75R16.
These two upgrades only cost me about $200! I found the tires at a swap meet on the last day when the seller was ready to get rid of them instead of haul them back home and the rear end was cheap because I was willing to crawl around under the truck to take it out.
Hope this helps.....


1950 Chevy 3/4-Ton Truck
In the Stovebolt Gallery
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 709
G
'Bolter
'Bolter
G Offline
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 709
Not sure about the details yet, but this guy says he can get them new:

https://www.kijiji.ca/v-transmissio...arend-gear-sets-3-42-3-73-new/1191519464



1948 Chevy Thriftmaster 3/4-Ton
Poncho "farming" in Ontario
Starting in the DITY
Continuing in the Project Journals
More images

There are only 10 types of people in this world, those who can read binary and those who can't.
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
G
.
.
G Offline
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
I don't think those gears are any good to you.
If they offer anything faster than 4.10 ratio it's probably not for your axle. Although some people claim that back in the day there was an aftermarket 7.73 ratio available.. I've never seen a picture of such gears.

The Eaton HO52 and HO72 axles aren't usually refereed to as "10 bolt"

A later model lighter weight GM axle is often called a "10 bolt" and I think that's what those gears are for.
http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/wiki/Rearend_identification


1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
---All pictures---
"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5,096
E
Crusing in the Passing Lane
Crusing in the Passing Lane
E Offline
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5,096
10 bolt axles are half ton modern stuff.

Ed


'37 GMC T-18 w/ DD 4-53T, RTO-610, 6231 aux., '95 GMC running gear, full disc brakes, power steering, 22.5 wheels and tires.
'47 GMC 1 ton w/ 302, NP-540, 4wd, full width Blazer front axle.
'54 GMC 630 w/ 503 gasser, 5 speed, ex fire truck, shortened WB 4', install 8' bed.
'55 GMC 370 w/270, 420 4 speed, grain, dump bed truck from ND. Works OK.
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 709
G
'Bolter
'Bolter
G Offline
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 709
This ad was for more modern, but through email they have claimed to be able to offer compatible gears for our Eatons. I am trying to get some detailed info and will share what I get.


1948 Chevy Thriftmaster 3/4-Ton
Poncho "farming" in Ontario
Starting in the DITY
Continuing in the Project Journals
More images

There are only 10 types of people in this world, those who can read binary and those who can't.
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
I
New Guy
New Guy
I Offline
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
Hey thanks for all the info, really helpful to get terms and dates etc. so I can start to understand. Was about to start going thru the wrecking yards to try and find 68-72 3/4T auto. Coach would love to hear your research on the HO52 ring and pinion. I would like a 3:50 to 3:90 if possible.

Larry


1949 3600 216 4 speed (completely original)
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
I
New Guy
New Guy
I Offline
Joined: Sep 2017
Posts: 19
Coach, any luck on finding a ring and pinion that fits? Sure would like to drive 50mph without running this 216 so hard.

Thanks, Larry


1949 3600 216 4 speed (completely original)
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
G
.
.
G Offline
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
He did not, and explained in another thread the vendor was confused, does not have new gears for the old Eaton axle.
https://www.stovebolt.com/ubbthread...ne-ton-rear-end-upgrade.html#Post1239041


1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
---All pictures---
"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Can’t find them. Lots of guys looking for them.

Don


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 357
S
'Bolter
'Bolter
S Offline
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 357
Why don't we as a group of 3600 and 1 tons find someone to make these. I'm talking about a ring and pinion which makes the whole process why harder. Than pulling a entire pumpkin and swapping it. Isn't there someone in America that has a casting/maching shop.

I have a pumpkin with the correct 4.11 gears. I'm busy with other things Brakes, Master Cylinder, and Seat foam. Mine could be used as a pattern for the first stage of Casting. What ever, I need them back.

How many are needed 200 or more


Julian Carter

1970 Triumph GT6
1967 Triumph TR4A
1952 Chevy 3600
1948 MG-TC
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 14,522
Moderator: Welcome Centre, Southern Bolters, Legion Hall
Moderator: Welcome Centre, Southern Bolters, Legion Hall
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 14,522
Back a few years ago I went to our local, and reputable, gear maker Griffin Gear.
http://www.griffingear.com/

They, or the "boss" I talked to, gave me about 5 minutes or less and flat told me they did not do "automotive" gears. I believe they once did but evidently not enough interest for their cost??? Just saying.......!


1937 Chevy Pickup
In the Gallery
1952 Chevy Panel
In the Gallery
More photos
1950 Chevy Coupe
Pictures!

I'd rather walk and carry a Chevy hub cap than ride in a Ferd.
I can explain it to you, but I can't understand it for you smile
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
What is another option besides the pumpkin swap? Is there another rear end that will match in width?

Don


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 28,674
H
Kettle Custodian (pot stirrer)
Kettle Custodian (pot stirrer)
H Online: Content
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 28,674
There are at least half a dozen full floating rear axles that are very close to the right width, with the exact same 8 bolt lug pattern. Dana type 60 and GM corporate 14 bolt are the most common - - - -in Ford, Dodge, GMC, International, and a few other brands of trucks. There's absolutely no reason other than bullheaded stubbornness to stick with the Eaton 3/4-1 ton housing. I've got a mid-1970's Dana 60 from a GMC with a 3.73 gear ratio and a Positraction center section under my 59 Burb right now.
Jerry


"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
G
.
.
G Offline
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
The GM 14 bolt from a “cab and chassis” truck is best axle swap in my opinion.
Width is perfect, lots of gear ratios available, some even faster than practical.
Brakes are large, available, and economical.
Spring perches do need moving. Better to replace with aftermarket bent steel ones that match spring width.
Brakes as they come just fit, but replacing drums with shallower offset ones (use same brake shoes) and welding on a new flange for backing plate to bolt on a little further out makes for plenty of room between brakes and springs.


1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
---All pictures---
"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Jerry
Tanks for the reply. The 3:73s might be to much for my 216cid to push down the road.

Also the Eaton pumpkin swap is far easier to do and it gets me the 4:11s that work best for my hp.

Don

Last edited by Don huffer; 11/18/2017 5:48 AM.

Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Grigg
Thanks for the reply but that’s sounds like too much work for me.

Don


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
G
.
.
G Offline
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 8,877
You’re welcome

The 4.10 swap is easy.
For a little more work and some welding the 14 bolt has several advantages, something to keep in mind.


1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
---All pictures---
"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Grigg
Unfortunately I may have to do the 14 bolt. Because I’ve got to do something.

Don


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 17
A
ADH Offline
'Bolter
'Bolter
A Offline
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 17
Don I've got a rear end out of my '51 3600 that I'm going to completely replace with an 8.8 out of an Explorer. I was told by the PO that it was a 4.11 but I've never confirmed it. Rear end is located at a friend's place down the road from me. If you'll give me a few days I can check it out and get back to you.

Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Great! What city?

Thx Don


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,442
Bolter
Bolter
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 7,442
Buying, swapping, trading or whatever you want to call it is not allowed on regular forums. Please take this discussion to Private Message. Thanks, The Stovebolt Staff nono


Martin
'62 Chevy C-10 Stepside Shortbed (Restomod in progress)
'47 Chevy 3100 5 Window (long term project)
‘65 Chevy Biscayne (Emily)
‘39 Dodge Business Coupe (Clarence)
“I fought the law and the law won" now I are a retired one!
Support those brave men/women who stand the "Thin Blue Line"! Hug a cop!
USAF 1965-1969 Weather Observation Tech (I got paid to look at the clouds)

Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 17
A
ADH Offline
'Bolter
'Bolter
A Offline
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 17
Oops. PM sent.

Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
D
Shop Shark
Shop Shark
D Offline
Joined: Jun 2017
Posts: 370
Oh man is it going to be hard to find a fix for these low “rear gears”. It’s my understanding this far, they have all been had or crushed. I live in the deep southern part of Florida. Guys at salvage yards are laughing that they have nothing older than 1985 trucks.

This is just another reason to not have a 3/4 ton.

Don😤😤😤😤😡😡😡


Can’t begin to tell you how much I hate the name Stovebolt.

Moderated by  Dusty53, SWEET 

Link Copied to Clipboard
Home | FAQ | Gallery | Tech Tips | Events | Features | Search | Hoo-Ya Shop
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 8.0.0
(Release build 20240826)
Responsive Width:

PHP: 8.3.11 Page Time: 1.597s Queries: 15 (0.071s) Memory: 0.7242 MB (Peak: 0.9116 MB) Data Comp: Zlib Server Time: 2025-09-22 16:02:19 UTC
Valid HTML 5 and Valid CSS