The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop daily driver set up

I have been reading posts on here for over a year trying to decide what I want to do with my 54 1/2 ton which will be used as a "semi" daily driver and some highway use. If I plan to keep the torque tube set up and stock 3 on the tree, it appears that my best set up would be (1) duel carbs (2) duel exhausts which I already have via split manifold (3)electronic ignition and (4) patricks ring and pinion. I am already running 15 inch tires. These appear to be the "bolt on" type things that an amateur can do that will enhance performance and pick up a little speed on the highway. I was lucky and my suspension and steering were tight when I bought the truck so I really don't want to fool with any of that right now. Maybe front disks later on. Am I too far off on my thinking?

I forgot to add that I have already converted to 12 volt and electric wipers and plan on adding turn signals in the near future.

I forgot to add that I have already converted to 12 volt and electric wipers and plan on adding turn signals in the near future.

Djed50,

Like you, I've been reading alot of the opinions on what makes up a good daily driver, and trying to determine what direction I want to go.

I believe I'll probably end up going the T-5 route at some point. At least on one of the trucks.

I just can't go any great distance with them stock, like they are, and I'd like to be able to hit some shows etc. a little further from the house.

It sound as though (from your post) you're leaning towards keeping the torque tube. If that's the case, your plan is probably about the only way to go about what you want to end up with. It sounds logical and well thought out to me.

The addition of turn signals you mentioned is a very wise choice.

I would probably consider the brake upgrade in the very near future, as it's going to take more to slow down from your new found speed.

I would also add seatbelts or ? to your list, if you haven't already done so.

But that's just my opinion.

djed50 I have red your post and thought I would throw in my 2 cents.
I have a 53 5 window with a 235, dual Holley/Webbers, Fenton hedders and Petronix ing. I am running Patricks 3.55 in a torque tube with good results. Fuel mileage is about 15 mph. I think you are on the right track if you want a daily driver. It has served me quite well.
Then I found a overdrive transmission and now I am in the process of changing everything over to an open drive line. A friend gave me a 55-1 rear end that I plan to use. The only reasion that I am going with an open drive line is that it gives me more options, and I plan to do some long trips with my truck.
I have also installed the disc brakes on the front axle. I did not use a kit, figgered that I saved a couple of hundred bucks by making up my own kit.
Hope this helps with your decision.
Tom

JED - djed 50 stands for dumb jock ed 50. old football coach and player and i was 50 when i made it up - now 56. there are so many ways to go with these truks i have had a hard time deciding what to do and i appreciate everyones imput.

Ed, my Bolt is a 56 235, 4 on the floor... like you my goal is to have a reliable daily driver.. I'm resurrecting, not restoring but I do want to keep the classic looks. I switched to an electronic ignition, added new wiper motor; windshield washer tank; radiator overflow tank; new wiring harness; turn signals (with flashing bulbs in the instrument panel); side mirrors; rear bumper; new (rebuilt) single carb; new door seals; I also completely redid the interior so I'd be driving in comfort. I have not done anything with the breaks and find them to be reliable. Steering dramatically improved after the new kingpins. Overall, I'm thrilled with how she rides and can clip along nicely at 50-55 on the highway. My next real wish is a radio... gets boring.

And oh yeah, I put in the all important cup holder for my coffee!

Good luck to you!!