47 dodge 1.5 ton

Guess I need to add, installed this manifold on the 237 because the original intake had a crack. I have a 265 that I’m working on for this application but figured I’d give the manifold a swap to work out the bugs.

As I have been playing around with my motor, added a few items and I’m not sure where I have made a mistake. Engine is a 237, w/factory dual intake /balance tube, b&b ETT1 carbs. I changed the factory exhaust manifolds for Langdon’s cast iron headers and have temporarily hooked up 2 1/4” pipe x 4 ft with glass packs on the end until I drive it to the exhaust shop. It seems very obnoxious, loud, rough idle IMO, and pops unburnt fuel when snapping the throttle. It breathes better than I thought possible and I was wondering if these flathead engines require some back pressure? Before I go with 2 1/4” exhaust and dynomax super turbo mufflers, thought I’d ask some opinions. Exhaust length will remain the same. Thanks, Kevin

I found one of those in my fathers tool box from his Porsche days, I believe they had velocity stacks sitting on them. Pretty sure he hasn’t used it in 50 years, maybe I can make an adapter out of a rubber/styrofoam cone and see if it still works? I thought they really could only be used at a set rpm(I have no tack) unless maybe have two calibrated to each other for checking sensitivity while throttled up and down?

Thanks for the replies gentlemen. I will report on my findings after I finish tuning. Thanks again, Kevin

Yes— google shows spelling as “syn”, that’s why I went with it. I know many have said they are not necessary, my factory linkage is worn so I’m going to see if I can synchronize the carbs a little better for now until I hunt down the linkage. So far, rods I just purchased from Jeg’s will not be sufficient.

Is there a preference to the manufacture before I buy one for B&B carbs? Thanks, Kevin

As you will find, there are several variations to the ‘47 1.5 ton trucks. Serial number changes, LA, Detroit differences, end of a line for this model and parts used to finish the production. My late serial number LA WF truck for example, has WH steering components. As you have already found in 70 years time, many changes could have been made to your truck. My advice, get the parts book and study it well, may prevent purchasing unneeded equipment. The Master service manual goes in great detail for the brakes over several pages which I did not copy. Hope this can help you a little. Kevin

Just getting back to the brakes, book reference.

Jeff, If you give me a few days, I’ll take some pictures in the book and send. We had over 7 inches of rain today and it causing some issues. Kevin

Jeff, The wood floor board is correct and very nice to access the starter, battery cables, emergency brake linkage. As mine does not have the 2speed rear, vacuum booster is for the brakes. The 2speed rear control switch is located on the shifter. Is yours a 4 or 5 speed? Nice to see another W series! Kevin

sorry— looks like by page 2, this was addressed. I set the ones on my ‘47 .012. & 014” and think that is plenty tight, no ticking. Removing the wheel and inner fender is only 1/2 hour job and worth every second for access, you can really see good in there. I had to fight a little with the exhaust splash shield. My great uncle worked for Chrysler for almost 50 years, the only thing I remember him saying was to set those flat heads loose until they tick a little.

You noted about possibly milling the head and the milling machine is designed for aluminum. Please be cautious as it may not be be rigid enough to cut cast iron and ruin your head.

Wanted to know if any of you folks will be at this PA show?

What can I do to obtain a copy of this picture? I would love this in my shop! Thanks, Kevin

Love this picture, could easily be my truck!! Pretty sure it bounced down after unloaded. They were tough in the day! Thanks for posting!

Jim, Thanks for the clarification on the Erie policy. I’m still looking for options if anyone has something that works. I do have a commercial policy for the other trucks so that is an option as well. You know I have to say this truck was considered a pickup when sold in Dodge’s old books. Must have got a little bigger over the years!

Ok, contacted my Erie agent today inquiring about changes available. She looked at some pictures and said Erie will not allow flatbed trucks on a personal policy? Is there a trick word I’m supposed to know? She did say they would get back but the antique policy was designed for cars to her knowledge. Any help you can offer would be appreciated. Thank you, Kevin

Glad to see you made it to Spring Carlisle and give an update. My brothers and I have had several spots at the Mopars at Carlisle for 25 years or so since it’s inception. I hate to drop bad news on anyone but, this event is primarily for muscle cars. There are almost “NO” flathead era items or vehicles at this show. It is a total amazement of 340,413, 426, 440 well done Mopar cars in all categories if you have any interest. There is usually a few 354,392 hemi cars and a couple of flatheads in the mix but I want to say about 1% max, there will be more late model cars. Unfortunately, there are more and more “junk” flee market type vendors each year.

The issue becomes the size, I have a 1.5 ton truck because a pickup was a little on the small side for my intent. I want to be able and use the truck for truck actives at shows( small antique tractor on the tail for example which I also collect). I have newer trucks that I could use but would like the novelty once in awhile. This truck is also worth more than 10k to me so I’d like that coverage as well. I keep this one in, the work trucks sit out, this will most likely never go on any long road trips( that’s what the 2020 Ram is for). I may even tote an old pc of equipment to a show here and there. I just need something that works, does not require all the DOT requirements extend... , but have coverage if needed.

I don’t care about the premium if it is within reason. I have a 47 1.5 ton truck that I would like to use for light use. It’s no junker and I have a few bucks in it. I have been asked to haul apples for a few “apple fest”, local church, wedding pictures, etc... more for a display while making apple butter. I have a small hobby farm and may move some hay or equipment in tow between farms once in awhile as I have several other trucks. Trips here or there to TSC, Lowe’s, etc. I do not drive it far from the house. I currently have Erie and have never made a claim. What do you have available? My agent set this policy up through American Collectors. Their agent called and wanted to keep me but would not change the language allowing to haul or tow with my light duty truck. I wanted to add— truck is stored in locked garage. Thank you, Kevin