The Stovebolt Site Forums The Side Lot BC Bolters 52 Panel in Vernon

Hello BC Bolters
This is Geoff here in Vernon, BC, and I am a new member, as well as new to vehicle restoration. I have just bought a 52 Chev Panel truck, which has been on my bucket list since spending a summer touring around southern Ontario in my friend Dan’s 52 Panel in 1973. It is currently a driver, but it will require serious attention come the spring, and although it is completely stock, and was a summer driver for the previous owner in Calgary for 35 years, it is time for a serious look at the drive train. It has a 261 with a 235 high compression head, and still has the torque tube rear end. I am weighing options about S 10 running gear, and would like to hear from anyone about their experiences or advice concerning some torque tube options. I intend to keep the Panel pretty much stock, and am also researching the “bolt-on” disc brake options that appear to be available, as well as any other improvements that will bring the truck into the 21st century highway speeds.
Cheers.....Geoff in Vernon

Hy Geoff'sPanel, welcome, as your plans firm up ask us specific questions in the appropriate forums, good luck with your project.

http://s824.photobucket.com/al.../zz161/traversewife/ Welcome Geoff, Something that may interest you.

Your link does not work for me.

Page does not exist. Why not use the Stovebolt Image program.? Instructions are in the left margin of every page.

Hi Geoff
I've been working on a 50 Chev PU, it came with a 54 235 with the 4 speed(is yours a 4 speed on the floor as well?) It came with a two piece open shaft with a slightly newer rear end (57 passenger car 3.1). I took the two piece shaft to a drive line outfit that installed a newer style steady or mid bearing, the old style bracket and bearing could not be found. Their computer program figured out the correct height of the bearing based on the angle difference between the engine and rear end. If I went to a single shaft I would have had to cut the rear end spring brackets to repostion to the required angle, so I took the easier route. So I made up a shim pack to reach this position they recommended. Only two years ago I've got it on the road and so far no major vibration issues. I did install a dual reservoir master cylinder with new lines and cylinders, and for some reason I can make it stop when I want to. Maybe not as good as a disc brake system but I don't drive fast and very cautious of other drivers.