It's been awhile since I've posted. Haven't done much yet. Still taking stuff apart and seeing what's here.

 

Looks like you have the stock Timken rear end - most likely with 4:86 rear gears.

 

Found this thread today - pretty interesting. But I've got a problem with the following statements:

"Top speed is about 45 mph."
"Top speed without wrapping out the 390 will be about 50 mph."

I still don't understand where some of you guys get the idea that 45-50 MPH is top speed on one these old pickups. I know that mine will go that fast fairly easy without even being in top gear. With a 31 to 32 inch tire and 4.86's, the engine would only be running 2300-2500 RPM at 45-50 MPH in high gear. With a 390 GT engine, you would still be below the peak of the torque curve at those revs. I can see where the gear changes you guys recommend would be ideal for cruising empty, flat land, and fuel economy but if you haul a load or pull a trailer, the lower gears are handy to have. If yours will only run 45-50 tops, something is definitely wrong with it! - Bob

 

Gear ratios aside I suggest you do some serious research on the Dana vs Timken, have been there done that and ended up with the Dana with a 3.73 behind my stock flathead. The Timken had a habit of blowing out the pilot bearing casting area for the pinion gear with a 100 horse flathead in it. It will not do well with a 390 in front. If you choose to keep the Timken split it to see what you really have. If I were pulling anything or in a very hilly area I would have chosen a 4.10.

 

Welcome to another '52 F3! We're the small group with the big trucks!!

 

Nick I have the gauges you need. I've had them for many years and they are in very good condition and I'll never use them. You can have for the cost of shipping. Dean

 

Hi. I just picked up a 52 F3 with no tailgate. Wondering if you would be willing to sell.one of yours?