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Hi all, first of all a happy new year to everyone. I own a 1958 Chevi Apache with V8 283 cu inch engine and three on tree transmission. I would like to reduce the engine speed. I guess the easiest way would be to change the rear axle ratio. I searched trough the web but unfortunately cannot find any useful info regarding the OEM axle ratio or what which axle ratio would solve my problem. Thanks in advance and greetings from Switzerland. Sascha
Hi all, first of all a happy new year to everyone. I own a 1958 Chevi Apache with V8 283 cu inch engine and three on tree transmission. I would like to reduce the engine speed. I guess the easiest way would be to change the rear axle ratio. I searched trough the web but unfortunately cannot find any useful info regarding the OEM axle ratio or what which axle ratio would solve my problem. Thanks in advance and greetings from Switzerland. Sascha
I had no luck in a search of the 1958 Chevy Apache axle or differential in the US. The highest gear ratio for a pickup in later GM year models was a .308.to one, but a 3.42 ratio is more common with a ratio of 3.73 being more common then that .I cannot find any information on what gear ratio's were used on your Apache at all. It may be quite expensive to find such an old unit, but I do not know that for sure. Ich habe mein Bestes gegeben, um es zu finden.
Ok, I get it, higher ratio rear end, lower rpm. I don't know what he has in it, or what he wants to do other than lower the engine rpm, but I'd go with a 3.73 myself
Ok, I get it, higher ratio rear end, lower rpm. I don't know what he has in it, or what he wants to do other than lower the engine rpm, but I'd go with a 3.73 myself
Me too, but I couldnt find any info on the Apache gear ratio's or where to find the gears.
I'd say pull the rear cover, and count the gears, that would tell what he has. I'd also suggest if he's wanting to replace it, go with one already built, not try to shim etc. yourself. I was in Geneva last summer, they got some great stuff! I caught a pix of a pre 55 23 window VW bus.
Thanks for your fast feedback. As you might know Geneva is located in the french part of Switzerland. Every year they organize one of the biggest carshows in Europe. But myself I was always more interested in old iron. Could you pls have a look on the kit I found. The owner manual was also a great help. Thanks!
That's fine a 3.38 if that's what you want. You will also, or should consider replacing axle bearings. You also will have to deal with gear mesh which will require shimming the ring gear to the pinon for proper gear mesh. Good luck!
Chevi Apache 1958
