The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk rusted out floorboards/ gearing change

The floorboards are pretty rusted out in my 52 pickup, does anybody have any recommendations as to who makes the best replacement parts, I've seen at least 2 different styles. Next, do you think I need to remove the cab to do this job properly. If so, do I need to make some sort of jig to hold it when I cut the floorboards out. I'm also thinking about doing the Patricks rearend gear change, any thoughts on that mod? I have a 4-speed in the truck now. Dave

The rearend gear change will cost you about $700 in parts, then you need to install them for a gear ratio of 3 55.

Another option is a T-5 out of an S-10 along with a rear out of an S-10 4X4 or mid 70's camaro, firebird cutlass etc. Weld new spring perches on to fit your truck. My T-5 is still on the garage floor. The truck it was in cost me $100. I don't know how much the Buffalo Enterprises tranny adaptor is to make the t-5 fit my 216...By the time you buy the tranny adapter parts, tranny, rear end and have the rear end welded up, you might be sorta close to paying for PAtricks 3 55 gear set. My problem is I have never rebuilt a rearend. I pay $700 and still might wind up paying another major chunk of cash to get it all installed.

Do a search on this topic with T-5 as keyword if you want more info on a T-5. Numerous owners on here have done it with great results.

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