The 1957 3/4 ton truck had a 4.57 ratio With a 5.14 optional. The 4.57 with the standard equipment 8-17.5 tires isn't as bad as it sounds. The engine speed at 60 MPH would be about 3290 RPM . A 1/2 ton truck with the standard 6.70X15 tires and a 3.90 ratio would be 2940 RPM. That would be equal to running the 3/4 ton at 55 MPH. If the 3/4 ton had the optional 19.5 tires it would be 2820 RPM at 60 MPH.....or you could put a later 4.11 in the 3/4 ton (from a later truck-they interchange) and bring it down to about 3000 at 60 MPH with the 17.5 tires.
The 3/4 truck will be like a truck. More rough riding without a load, has lager (more expensive) brakes and tires and chassis parts,etc. Wouldn't be my choice.
Last edited by Chev Nut; 01/27/08 07:43 PM.
