Ring & pinion
 

What is the best place to get a 3.25 -1 ring & pinion for my 38 Ford. I have a 4.55 -1 which is way to slow for me. I will also trade or buy outright. Thanks

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I just bought quality 3.25 set from Van Pelt. They installed without any problems, other than the standard PitA associated with old Ford rear end work. You will also need a set of gaskets that are used to set the bearing preload and gear backlash. Also replace the pinion bearing while you are in there. The other bearings are easier to get to, so if they look good, no need to replace.

I really like the ability to keep up with Interstate traffic without the engine roaring over 3000 rpm. Stop and go in traffic and on hills has not been a problem, but my flathead is bored and stroked to 284 cubic inches, and has a ton of torque. If you are running a tired stock engine, the clutch is going to take a beating. If you are running a V8 60, don't even think of anything taller than 4.11.

Since you are looking for faster, think about upgrading the brakes. Hydraulic conversion for sure, preferably Bendix/Lincoln brakes, at least on the front.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I prefer the 3.54:1 for a stock engine. If it's a light body car the taller ones might be OK but too tall for a heavy car in my opinion.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I purchased a 3.25 ring and pinion and other parts you recomended but now need to change the speedometer gear. Have you got any idea what gear i need and where to get it? Thanks i realy apreciate you help. John

Re: Ring & pinion
 

17 tooth gear will work in a #18 turtle housing. Brattons Model A Parts sells a 17 tooth gear made in nylon that will work well.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

Checked this out with Bratton's, have you used this combo or know anyone who has used it? I appreciate your advise. Will check to see if i have a 11-39 gear box.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

No, I have not personally used that 17 tooth speedometer gear, primarily because I haven't, and probably wouldn't use 3.25 gears in my cars. I do however know folks who have used that 17 tooth nylon gear to correct their speedometer reading when using 3.54 gears with tire sizes larger than 6.00 x 16.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I just put 3.25 gears in my '41 with a strong 284" flathead. I tried the 17 tooth driven gear from Braxton in the stock 19 housing; the speedometer flutters because the driven gear is just barely touching the worm gear on the drive shaft.

Ordered the un-numbered turtle from Mac's, which they swear matches the 18 turtle. The 17 is supposed to work in an 18 turtle. I will report further after I get it installed.

Re: Ring & pinion
 

Just removed the gear case from my car. It had a 24 marked on it. I counted 24 teeth on gear. That must be the correct gear for a 455 ring and pinion that is in the diff. Your thoughts?

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I think you are right. That low of a rear end gear indicates that '38 must have originally been delivered with a V8 60 engine. I had a '37 slant back with a V8 60 and it wouldn't pull the hat off your head with 4.11 rear end gears.

What engine do you have and how healthy is it?

Re: Ring & pinion
 

In 1951 when i first bought car it had a Columbia two speed. You could tell someone robed it because the drive shaft is rusty and axle housings are painted and look fine now. I think the engine can handle the 3.25 because it runs and starts well, steady 150-155 comp.,edmonds dual intake,stromburg 97s,offenhouser heads. Dont know what is inisde engine. If you would like to see it and read about it check this out. htt:/hemmings.com/index.php/2015/07/14/fifty-nine-years-later-and-four-states-away-ohio- man-finds-his- first-car/?refer=news

Re: Ring & pinion
 

Follow up post.....

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=231508

Re: Ring & pinion
 

I agree with rotorwrench,I think you will like the 3.54 better,just my opinion

Re: Ring & pinion
 

Great to see results from diff.and speedometer gear changes. Will order and do what you did. Thanks much