The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop '39 4 speed

I've just purchased a 39 with a 4 speed that really growls. After having 5 advanced designs I'm not sure what is normal. Lucas and STP don't seem to help. The truck has a '59 235 which came with the original 4 speed trans set up for an open drive line. If I use that trans what is a good rear end that I can swap and still use my 16" wheels? Limited slip would also be nice.

Are you saying the trans. is the original '39? If so, those early pre-'48 4-speeds had straight cut gears, so they are going to be noisier than the later 4-speeds with helical gears. I don't know how much noise is normal either. Could be bearing problems, too.

Thanks Curt - I think I'll keep the non syncro 4 speed. My '48 advance design 4 speed shifts like a dream compared to the '39 4 non syncro but I like the challenge of hitting the gears with a smooth double clutch. I used to drive semis in the 60's and my first rig was a B-61 Mack tractor which required shifting a 5 speed gear box and a 2 speed axle at the same time. It took some time to master; if you missed a gear on a hill you had to start over. Once I mastered the trans it was a plesasure to drive. Thats what I like about the '39. (and the old lady never asks to borrow you're truck)