MP,
A couple of years ago (and many dollars as well!) I completed the restoration of an F8, Cab 11. I can honestly say that a project like this is not for the faint of heart! This site is the best for getting advice and feedback. The members of it were most helpful in aiding me with suggestions and answers to my questions. I strongly recommend that you maintain the integirity of the vehicle as a whole as you are restoring a part of history, something that nobody likes to have rewritten.
Now, having said that, I did install a '46 Mercury flathead (15 more horsepower) and did install an automatic transmission. BUT, I pinned the clutch pedal to the brake shaft so that the pedal set-up looks just like the original. One can press on either pedal for braking. And, I installed a Locar shifter which comes up into the cab in the exact same location as the original shift arm. Both of these do make driving the vehicle much safer due to the very limited foot space for the pedals.
I might add that neither "adjustments" affect the authentic look of the interior.
As for driving at speeds over 60, I wouldn't recommend it. Mine drives fine up to that speed with the hard tires but at 45-55 MPH one does feel much more secure!
Best of luck in your search for a vehicle!
Regards,
Jim
PS I did remove those "crab eyes" turn signal indicator fixtures and installed a pair in holes on either end of the bumper.
