The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Driveability Questions.

My 46 1/2 ton is an amateur original resto. Still runs on a 216 and 4-speed, however, this particular 216 has some issues. I have an opportunity to obtain the complete (Rebuilt) drive train out of a 39 chevy car for a couple of hundred bucks. Question is, by swapping out the car drive train, motor, tranny, and rear end, with the truck, how much if any do you think I might improve the driveability of my truck? I mean cruising speed etc.

The first thing that comes to mind is the taller rear end that is most likely in the car. That alone would improve the cruising speed, but because your torque multiplication won't be as great, it'll probably be more sluggish off the line.

That's kind of what I was thinking. I seem to have way more low-end that I'll ever need for a cruiser. However, it would be nice to get out and cruise at a half-decent speed. Anyone out there done something like this, or know whay type of gears might be in the car rear-end?

If you don't have a problem with swapping your original stuff, I'd go with later drivetrain. There were some defintite improvements in the 50's and 60's. Parts are a little easier to come by. I can still get most parts at Autozone or Napa. A mid 50's-early 60's 235 would be a good choice or a 60's 250 or 292. You could pretty much have your choice of tranny's with these.
I'd find a newer rear which different size ring and pinions are still made.
You're gonna get better performance and driveability from a newer drivetrain and more parts will be available for upgrades in the future.
It might cost more than the '39 Chevy stuff initially but, in the long run, it'll more than pay for itself.
-David
Kustoms-and-Sleds

One good thing about all the SUV's out there now, there should be plenty wrecked to pick good heavy duty parts out of in the salvage yards. I'm thinking rear ends. Should be easier than ever to get good strong posi rear ends that you can get a variety of ring and pinions for.