Hi Jeff, congrats on the new truck! even though it is a "late model"
:)
They used 3 different 6 cyl engines in 66, a 230, a 250, and a 292. The
292 had a taller block, and the engine mounts are offset--they are not
the same distance from the back of the block on both sides. The 230 and
250 are pretty much the same.
The gear ratio in most of the 60s trucks (1/2 tons) was 3.73, which is
probably what you have.
They can get lousy mileage. If you drive on the highway a bunch, you
may get 14 mpg...but maybe not. The wierd thing is that you can usually
get the same or better mileage with a V-8 (even a big block, if it's set
up right). Then again, some folks get 15 or 18 mpg with their old 6 cyl
trucks...so there are a lot of variables.
Adding some type of overdrive would help, but only on the highway, and
it'll cut down on your pulling power when in overdrive (like when you
want to go up a hill, or if you want to haul some weight).
You might also do a complete tune-up, as suggested, checking the vacuum
advance, float level in the carb, and other such things. Make sure the
brakes aren't dragging, too...
Jim F
59s in AZ
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