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Hello all, I have just bought a 1947 1/2 ton, flathead 239. Replacing a leaky carb (going to rebuild the original-have to learn how), and getting kingpins for the steering-they are shot. My question is this. The 3 speed leaks pretty badly. It grinds too, so certainly looking at a rebuild. I do want to keep the truck as original as possible, but seriously considering swapping in a T5 from a S10, and welding on the original shifter **** to keep the original appearance in the cab at least. I do not know what gears are in the rear-does anyone know what came stock? It was cruising at 65, pretty much topped out, on the way home. I really want to be able to cruise the highway comfortably, so that's why I'm wondering if a T5 would be a good plan, and I wanted to ask the experts in here. I am planning to keep the rest of the truck original-it even looks to have original paint, no rust, the 239 sounds healthy. Not worried about hurting the value-I plan on keeping this truck till I die, and then passing it to my son. Thanks for your insights!
Welcome and nice looking truck. A couple of thoughts. If you want to rebuild the stock trans order the trans book from Van Pelts. They will have the parts you need. Or you can send your trans to them for a complete proper rebuild, As far as the carb goes you can send it to Charlie Schwendler in New York for a complete rebuild. You won't be disappointed. Also, suggest you join the Ford Barn. There is a member GB Sisson who is all things Jail bar trucks. He recently installed a T5 behind a Merc flathead in a home built woodie. Lots of good info there. Also suggest that you add your general location to your profile. You never know who might be near by who can offer help or advice.JMO
As for your rear end ratio, it should be stamped somewhere on the banjo... I believe 3.73, 3.78, 4.11 are common.
It seems to me that it is far easier to fit another rear end with a better ratio than to engineer another transmission if you can't get satisfaction out of your existing (as is or with tweaks).
Oh, and welcome to one of the best places on the Internet for these trucks!
Welcome to the nightmare. The transmission is probably okay other than the leaks. These are straight cut gears. Learning to double clutch and rpm match helps lots. If you had it up to 65 everything was screaming loudly!
tlktchr,
Nice Jailbar truck! Yes GB Sisson would be all over this. Get your thread started over on the Ford Barn also. Can't hurt. Good guys there too. 65 MPH in one of these sounds like your near the top end of its abilities? I could be wrong? Customizing the truck is a slippery slope. If you want a interstate driver this may not be the truck you want or it may have to be changed a lot. Translate that: lots of time and money. Not trying to discourage you, as you truck looks like a good solid original truck. Keep us informed.
Regards,
Chris and Cheryl
i have that same 3 speed in my 47 1/2 ton. I got that book also and rebuilt mine, ez! Mine needed new synch. cluster gear and bearings. works great now,2nd and 3rd gear are sync. so it's ez to shift,unlike the 4 speed crash box big trucks have. Engine was ez too,All I did was replaced rings and valve assy. And remove tons of old oiley crud .bearings all were good. runs great, top speed about 70, but it likes 55. gas mailage sucks, maybe 10 mpg
nice truck!
