Posted by Dennan [108.162.219.85] on Wednesday, May 06, 2020 at 19:46:20 :
In Reply to: Are the Dennan overdrives still available? posted by Ammo [162.158.74.238] on Wednesday, May 06, 2020 at 12:28:18 :
Hi Ammo,
I have often wondered why there was not more guys interested in building or buying an od for their trucks. It is the most bang for the buck in terms of speed and driveability, imo. I have been thinking about making a you tube video for a diy build and maybe this is the kick in the rear that I need to do it.
You can probably still build an od today for less than $500. The basic unit was built by Laycock in England for years for many makes including Jaguar and Triumph. I had one in my '61 big Healey, and I loved it. The Gear Vendors units are built under license from Laycock and the design is rugged and dependable.
The od's I used were installed in Volvo 240 and 260 cars in the '70s and 80's and and I was buying them for $50 with the trans. I would cut the input/output shaft, leaving enough on the front to press and weld a 4" hub. A 1" aluminum plate was used to block the front of the housing. One of the key parts were two M37 flange yokes so that the od bolted in with no modifications.
In retrospect, I think what I should have done was to offer kits with all parts (except for the od itself), and input shaft exchange with the hub installed. If anyone is interested in building an od, or even starting a business, I would be glad to give them any help I could including dimensions, patterns, and photos. I may have one or two units available in the future if I can get to it. At 77yo however, I'm trying to get busy living, because I'm not ready for the alternative.
Just a fast shout-out to the guys who have always been my supporters - Mack from Texas, Dock Dave, and Tom Petroff. Thanks!
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