Truck Details: 1954 Chevy 3100 235 Engine 200 4R Trans. Tires to be determined...but will most likely be near the smaller side as compared to original. Have most of the parts I need to get this back on the road. I do know I need to upgrade to an open drive shaft so I am on the hunt for a rear end. Have done many many searches as to what might be a candidate. I have a line on a 1968 Firebird rear end with 3.23 gears. Measures out 61.25 inches, or thereabouts. So, just a wee wider than the original rear end. My question is...and perhaps I should have first mentioned that I'm by no means a mechanic...just someone who these old trucks and wants to learn how to build one. But my question is, will the 3.23 gears be sufficient for my cruising street/highway application? And, is the 1968 Firebird rear end an acceptable rear end or is it one of those to avoid? Have heard that once these gears get worn out, they're pretty much done. Just seems that finding acceptable replacement rear ends are becoming more of a challenge to find. Thanks in advance.
3.23 "should" work ok. you need to find a gear ratio calculator and plug in your od, final gear and tire diameter to determine your cruising RPM. Your Engine may be happier in certain ranges depending on if its stock, mildly modified, radical mods, etc.
Thank you...only spending $100 on this rear end, but it tends to add up, especially when buying certain parts, only to find out later it does not work as originally thought.
I agree. With a .67 OD and 30" tall tires you will be turning less than 1500 RPM at 60 mph. I don't think the 235 will be too happy.
Thank you HAMB members!! I just did some more calling around and found a lead on a 55 Chevy Truck WITH 3.90 gears. Going to have a look this evening
The Jalopy Journal
