The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Patrick's 3:55 rear end conversion - DONE!

I just finished putting Patrick"s 3:55 ring and pinion set in my 1951 pickup. Man! what a difference. Cruising at 55-60 is now done without thinking the old babbit pounder is gonna come thru the firewall in protest.

His instructions are reasonably clear, although I wish the pictures were a little bigger, my eyes ain't what they used to be. I know that this conversion has been made by quite a few of you guys, but if you haven't done this yet, and you want to keep the torque tube for originality, I highly recommend changing gear ratios.

I didn't take any photos, my hands were usually too greasy, but I did make note of a few shortcuts and tool modifications I had to do to complete the job. If there's enough interest, I'll post something in the FAQ or Tech Tip section.

Great job. Most of this stuff can be handled by the average person if you take your time & use your head. It is great to have the assistance of all the fellow bolters on this websight. I wish they would get the gears for the 55 up in. They have been on back order for 6 months. I want to put a set in my 55-2.

Well done Fred. I put the 3.55 gears in my 41 late last year. The old 216 loves it. Patrick's photos could be a lot better. I'd also like to see him produce a video or dvd on the procedure to make it even easier.

Cheers

Bob

Fred;
I installed Patrick's 3.55 conversion in my 49 AD. The instructions were OK but not great. (His phone support is world class though).
I then installed Patrick's Saginaw/Firebird 4 speed conversion in my '49 AD.
The instructions were of very poor (photo) quality but the product and results are just outstanding.
Mike

I've done up a tech tip on what I ran into doing the ring and pinion job. I've asked "management" if they want me to submit it.

I am VERY interested in the 4 speed conversion, I think that my 3 speed's days are numbered. Mostly minor leaks, but also I think I have a synchronizer ring starting to head south. Does his floor shift come up thru the floor in a practical place?

Hey Mike3100,

What year/model is your Firebird 4speed? I too have done Patrick's 3:55 and Saginaw conversion, and while it is much better than my old set-up, I think I may not have the correct spline count 4speed that Patrick reccommends. I still don't have much of a first gear.

Chuck

I replaced my 4:11's a couple years ago. Truck has never ran so good. glad to hear you also did it successfully.

Craig

We've got Fred' Tech Tip and should get it in this week! Will let you know when it's there. Fred did a great job with it.