[Mike K]

hi Doug

I've owned both, refurbished them and driven them around a bit ..the Ford wasn't a CMP, but a 11D ex army 3/4 ton .

Something nobody has mentioned yet is: The Fords are far less forgiving in terms of the cooling system .. your radiator and water pumps have to be in top condition .. the Ford motor has little leeway or forgiveness..the design of the block is such that it's a 'warm motor' always running on the edge .. ask anyone from tropical Queensland who drove one as a everyday vehicle ...days above 90 F will test things. Why did the LRDG throw away their Fords I wonder - all chevies for them, Hmm....

The recirculating ball steering box used by GM is so much better than Fords crude offering... the Chev S/box has a very good stable affect on the road..you feel more relaxed with it ..driving is a pleasure , not an ordeal. Nothing worse than wandering around on the road . Poorly designed steering boxes are more the norm with older vehicles ... My Holden HR ute steering box was massive compared to a car from the 1930's or 40's ...

The Ford gearbox ..not really an issue .... just practice .