I can see this has been discussed some, but it couldn’t hurt to start another thread…
Proud new owner of a 1949 3600. I looked a long time for ¾ ton that was restored, but not hot-rodded yet as I wanted to do my own thing. I wanted a ¾ ton from the get-go - even knowing that it could require some changes. Above all, I want to keep the stock look inside (interior) & out.
Presently, I have the following “modern” enhancements 235 instead of a 216. 12 volt conversion and what appears to be a Dana 70 rear (?).
Short Term, Here’s what I want to do– Power steering & Power brakes .
Shorter term, just the brakes for now…
I could live with the steering for now, but the braking I just don’t like - & the whole system has been supposedly rebuilt, but it’s like stopping an aircraft carrier. My closest experience is a ¾ ton 65 suburban 230/4spd. that was my driver for 5 years. That was better even though it had many miles & no brake work done on it.
So, more than one person has said to me, “You want better brakes - stay with the drums, gets a new dual master and a firewall mounted booster”.
This recommendation to stick with drums seems to bring up several things:
1. Do it to save money – most bang for buck.
2. I have eight lug hubs & in front no one seem to be able to guarantee me a fit for a disc brake kit – though I would gladly look at viable “parts swap” options out there vs getting a complete kit.
3. To eliminate the option of changing to a ½ ton front axle just to make the brake mods easier.
Now, for the issue I have with the current rear axle (Dana 70?) To me, (but seemingly no one else who has seen the truck) the Dana rear just looks too wide. Take a look at the pics…
http://s36.photobucket.com/user/riverwork/library/Chevy49?sort=6&page=1 …& notice how far the wheels stick out. After reading several threads, I am convinced there has to be not-too-hard-to-find options for other eight lug options out there for a narrower axle (with a better highway ratio than stock). The same has be true for disc brake options.
Now, I did order one 16” x 6” (w/4”offset) wheel from Wheelvintiques to use for a spare and to test mount to see if anything changes (it will arrive in a week or so).
That’s it for starters. Opinions, assistance, expertise appreciated.
Also, I live in Western Massachusetts and would like to network with other AD owners & find out about shops up to 2-3 hours from me that know these and/or do work on them.
Thanks, Bob
