What's needed to install a 24 stud into an earlier 21 stud car

[Kube]

Originally Posted by Bored&Stroked

I've found that mechanical brakes work quite well . . . up until you get to higher speeds (over 55 mph) and/or use them a lot (long downhill grades at higher speeds). I think the more modern 'Bendix' style of brakes are a solid update to the Lockheed style brakes that many of us have used.

On the tire side, I put the Excelsior Radials on my 32 Cabriolet and they dramatically improve the handling and safety of these older cars ---> again, especially at higher speeds, around corners, etc..

As others have mentioned, I really like the E.J. Whitney alternator conversion and would really want to run the BEST headlight/taillight solutions possible ---> that could be either Halogen bulbs (they take a lot of amps) or a LED retrofit bulbs. Original lights at night are just not a great solution for a car you want to drive a lot.

Hey Kube: If you decide to hop-up that later flathead, be happy to help you in any area where you might have questions. More cubic inches and power are surely a help in pulling highway grades with a Columbia in the rear.

Truly, I respect you and your advice.
My plans don't envision nighttime driving, and I refuse to get on an interstate with these old cars. Crap, around here 80+ mph is the norm.

My vision?
A "barn find" appearance yet very reliable. I am confident I can get the reliability of the stock drivetrain.
Radials? Maybe. I do have one prewar Ford with radials that noticeably drives nicer than bias.

I am really looking forward to this project. Although a huge shift in what I have done for decades, methinks this will be a fun and mentally healthy endeavor.

I want to stress that I am sincerely appreciative to you and the others that have chimed in here.
Thank you all.

[34fordy]

Hey Kube,
I kinda think you are after the same kinda enjoyment that I have. My 36 pickup has mechanical brakes that work well and I like the 6 volt system. I put 8 ply radial van tires on it and love them. I did add turning lights this spring but have a habit of forgetting to turn them off after getting around the corner. I do not go over 50 mph, drive in the rain or nighttime. I do not go places. I drive it 3-5 times a week in the spring, summer and fall. Every outing is just for the enjoyment I get from sitting behind the wheel, listening to the flathead purr and noticing all the waves and thumbs ups from so many folks. I do not worry if my great grandkids crawl around it. No matter how much I like this pickup that is all it is--an old pickup to enjoy. I believe the sun is gonna shine for ya Mike!

[deuce_roadster]

Mike,
What body style is this non-concourse car that has been waiting so long for you?

[slowforty]

I recommend the rear sway bar kit from Drake (If it is in Stock)It works quite well.
I also recommend a visit to the Newport Hill Climb in Newport Indiana. In the first weekend in October. Check out You Tube for Videos

[fortyonerag]

Apols for jumping in here; can someone provide details of the rear sway bar kit from Drakes?
I've done a search, but found nothing.

[Tim Ayers]

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Agree about the mechanical brakes. A buddy had them in his '35 coupe with a hopped up flathead. I was really surprised how well they worked.

As long as they are adjusted properly (which, judging by your posts, they will be) the rods are straight and the ends and pins aren't all wallowed out, they work surprisingly well; even at decent (65-70 mph) speed.

Kube, not sure how far you want to go, but a mild hop up (dual intake, etc.) would make the car a tad more enjoyable and give you some eye candy.

[TomT/Williamsburg]

Coming over to the dark side just a little? We have had a conversation ir two about this. Driving them n more of an as-is state can be a while heck of a lot of fun! Enjoy!

[Kube]

Originally Posted by TomT/Williamsburg

Coming over to the dark side just a little? We have had a conversation ir two about this. Driving them n more of an as-is state can be a while heck of a lot of fun! Enjoy!

Hilarious!
Yep, coming over to the dark side indeed!
I won't do any so called "upgrades" nor any modifications like aluminum heads, additional, carbs., etc.
My vision is the old barn find patina appearance but very reliable.
I'd done this once before so I was already I suppose down the evil path

The '34 coupe did in fact sit since 1949. I made it VERY roadworthy while doing my best to keep that "as is 1949" appearance.

[Planojc]

Mike one thing you may want to consider down the road, since you are a 39, 40 guy, is to replace the 36 steering box with a 39 box. I did this on my 35 and it's like having power steering. You will need the 39 mounting bracket also. Enjoy and have fun with your project.

[34fordy]

Originally Posted by Kube

Hilarious!
Yep, coming over to the dark side indeed!
I won't do any so called "upgrades" nor any modifications like aluminum heads, additional, carbs., etc.
My vision is the old barn find patina appearance but very reliable.
I'd done this once before so I was already I suppose down the evil path

The '34 coupe did in fact sit since 1949. I made it VERY roadworthy while doing my best to keep that "as is 1949" appearance.

My heart is still aching for that 5 window Mike!