Which gear ratio for this engine?

fivefix

fivefix

Member
I just dropped off my engine at Antique Engine Rebuilders in Skokie, IL. Richard Falluca is going to rebuild with his touring package which includes a counterbalanced crank, lightened flywheel, 6.0 high compression head, all new bearings, rods and pistons, larger intake valves, etc, etc.

I'm looking for opinions on whether I should go with a 3.54 as I had planned or will I have enough power to move to the 3.27 and still be able to enjoy "in town" driving?
 
I'm no expert, but the '31 roadster I have has an unmodified diamond B block with the 3.54 gears. If and when I "bang it" up with an HC aluminum
head, better cam, carb, etc. It will most assuredly be up graded to the 3.27 gears. However, city driving will be kept at a minimum!;)

Bob-A:D
 
I put a 3.27 in the rear of my 29 CCPU with a similar warmish B motor

Pulls the weight more than happily. Traffic no problem. Relaxed highway cruising at 50-55mph. Love it. Only downside is that I now have to drop into 2nd for roundabouts (traffic circles).

Took it to the sand for the Pendine Speed Trials in September. Ran 69.87mph with more to come. With stock gearbox and 21" wheels I think that relates to 2411rpm

Cheers

Juggs
 
I feel that the 3.78 gear ratio is the best way to go. We don't really like cruising at much over 50 mph in the model A. Its not that we have problems with the running gear. With the tall narrow tires, it would be easy to lose control. A person would be lucky to survive a wreck at over 50 mph in a model A. I modify my engines for hill climbing and power to spare but not for higher cruising speed. We never need to down shift and can accelerate up hills like a modern car. Raising the gear ratio, greatly increases the risk of lugging the engine. If we are in a big hurry, we go in the modern vehicle.
 
You're most likely handing over $3500 or more to Rich, did you ask him what he recommends??
Paul in CT

I'd probably be looking at a Mitchell o/drive.
 
What is the terrain like where you do most of your driving? Is this for the Tudor?

You didn't mention the cam. If you are going to run a reground cam I'd definitely go no higher than 3.54. With a new cam and mild terrain I'd probably go with 3.27 gears.
 
I'd go either the 3.54 or 3.78 with a Mitchell gear splitter or a 3.27 with Mitchell's transmission with closer ratio first and second gears. The cost would be about the same, but what a versatile car.
With a 3.27 in town you'd be lugging it in high or using a pretty slow second gear.
My opinion.
 
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