Hey was wondering if there were any easy ways to get a higher top speed in a 1949 F-3 with a flatty 6. I don;t really have alot of money to spend on a new tranny. I wil be going to a IFS later on so the lug pattern dosent matter.... would a 9" rear end help?

 

Sure. I'd look for something in the 3.00 to 3.50 range.

 

ok and do u know what that will do for a top speed? i was told my truck stock top speed was around like 45-50 i am thinking i need to go at least 60 to be highway safe.


Thanks,

Alec

 

Your F-3 probably has a 4:86 gear. A change to 3:00 to 3:50 would certainly put you into the 60 MPH range or even higher. However, I'd be leery of a 3:00. That would make your six banger quite doggy on the take off. A 3:25 is about as tall as I'd go with that engine. You are going to an IFS yet retain the original six? That seems odd. If your going to the dark side with an IFS why not go a bit further and look for a later engine and tranny.

 

I love the flatty's so simple, but i wanna kinda upgrade the ride and run disc's up front. plus i don't got that much money to spend on a new engine and tranny

 

Understood. However, the six won't last forever and that 4 speed is not very friendly in traffic. You might consider working toward a later model drive train eventually. The 289/302 and FMX/C4 has been around since the early 60s and they are also simple engines/transmissions which can be had relatively cheap. A taller and stronger rear end and disc brakes are a good place to start...