I6 engine re-build

[cjb40]

I have a 55 2nd series Chevy 235 ci truck. The engine is being rebuilt and I'm upgrading to an Offy dual intake manifold. Does anyone want to share with me any info about this upgrade and how much the performance might be improved?? My rear end gear ratio is 3.9:1 and I'm told by Patrick's Classic trucks that a better fit would be a ratio of 3.55:1. Any comments here?? Or would I be better off finding a whole diff. rear end from another vehicle and if so what model. A complete rebuild of the rear end would cost me around $700.00.
Also, any suggestions on how to make it steer easier?? Pwr steering seems to be out with an I6.
Thanks for any input.

My dad purchased this truck brand new in 55 and passed it one to me 7 yrs ago. It has 78,676 original miles!!

 

[ljw]

a nice original low miles truck might be worth keeping it that way,but if you are interested in changing the diff, a differential from a 1969 four wheel drive will bolt right in with no mods if you get a leaf spring rear.They are usually 3:73 rear gears,which is what I have,and you can find posi's in those years.I might add that it much easier to have your rear end gears changed,and that you may be able to get converted to posi.

 

[cjb40]

I've decided to change the gear ratio in the rear-end. From a 3:90 to a 3:38 that I'll buy from Patrick's. I visited Patrick's as I was out there in the Phoenix area over the Xgiving Holiday. Neat place. Hey, I am in need of a single barrel Rochester carb. for my I6, 235ci. I located one on E-bay that I could prob get for 20.00 in a day or so. Any other idea's. Lots of new/re-built ones but to much money.
TIA

 

[ljw]

unless your carb is warped,or just flat worn out at the shafts and bearing surfaces(leaks)-you would be amazed how you could probably revive your carb yourself,with a rebuild kit,some solvent,and elbow grease.It is important to do some reading first,and to be able to follow instructions,of which there are surprisingly few.

 

[cjb40]

I did rebuild the original carb that was on the truck. I'm sort of an old hand at this task. It works fine. But the one I found in Ebay is pretty rough looking. But I think I'll bid on it anyway. What have I to lose, right. Maybe $20.00 or so. I just need to ensure that it's matched up perfectly with my original. From everything I read on the carb shop, I may have bit off more than I can handle with this dual carb set-up.
Thanks.

 

[vwnate1]

RE: Dual Carbys / 235

Carl ;

You'll love this etup _if_ you follow the basics , few people do .

Go to the Inliner's site and find thier page on setting up Rochester ' B ' series carbies for dual usage , the main thing is to match every jet & orifice in both carbies so they'll both flow exatly the same amount .

Most folks don't need to do much modifications once they're properly matched .

Remember to balance them with the engine at idle , fully warmed up and the linkage between the two _disconnected_ ~ this is where most folks screw up .

Have fun , it'll scream .

You may want to have Kansas Kustoms split your exhaust manifold to improve breathing , it really does help .

-Nate