6066 (1960-1966) GMC Truck Club

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-   -   Drivability question (https://6066gmcclub.com/showthread.php?t=51293)

Mike Caldwell February 11th, 2022 02:43 AM

Drivability question
 
Been a while since Iv'e done much and lots of changes, good and bad.

But here's the question I'm asking myself -- how "drivable" would a 401 w/auto be in a 'glass Model A pickup?

I've wanted to build one since I was a sprout and now have means/time to do it. I love low-end torque (drove Poppin' Johnnies as a kid) so the BB GMC's appeal to me.

But how will my antique engine out of a "New Idea" harvester handle long road runs and city traffic? (Assuming I get the gearing/tire size/etc correct)

I'd love to have the old torque monster in my truck but if something goes wrong two states away it could be a problem.

So what's you experience in long-distance cruising?

Ed Snyder February 11th, 2022 05:41 AM

Re: Drivability question
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Caldwell (Post 75182)
Been a while since Iv'e done much and lots of changes, good and bad.

But here's the question I'm asking myself -- how "drivable" would a 401 w/auto be in a 'glass Model A pickup?

I've wanted to build one since I was a sprout and now have means/time to do it. I love low-end torque (drove Poppin' Johnnies as a kid) so the BB GMC's appeal to me.

But how will my antique engine out of a "New Idea" harvester handle long road runs and city traffic? (Assuming I get the gearing/tire size/etc correct)

I'd love to have the old torque monster in my truck but if something goes wrong two states away it could be a problem.

So what's you experience in long-distance cruising?

Sounds like a fun project! You should have no worries about long distance cruising. I bought my '62 in the Phoenix, AZ, area and drove it home to Oregon. Then later I drove it to Jolly's in Utah and back. And I drove my Dad's '65 from Wichita to Oregon in 2014 with no problems at all. Treated right, these engines are pretty bullet-proof.

I'm sure you're aware that your 401 weighs about 900 pounds. So you'll need some hefty springs for the front end on your glass A.

Mike Caldwell February 11th, 2022 04:35 PM

Re: Drivability question
 
Yeah, the weight is another consideration along with gas mileage.

But both can be managed. I bet the Big V-6's sound good chuckling along at half the revs of others!

Prowbar February 12th, 2022 08:06 PM

Re: Drivability question
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Mike Caldwell (Post 75184)
Yeah, the weight is another consideration along with gas mileage.

But both can be managed. I bet the Big V-6's sound good chuckling along at half the revs of others!

yes they do :upyes:


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