High gear ratio w/ M20 & 5.3 Drivability

[robertsjm711]

All,

I have searched and have not found a clear answer to my question. I have a '53 3100 with a S10 frame, 5.3l, Muncie M20 w/ 2.56 1st, 12 bolt passenger rear w/ 2.27 final & tire height ~27".

Will the 2.27 ratio that is in my rear cause harm to my truck? I plan to upgrade the rear to a lower gear w/ posi, maybe 3.73, but I'd rather spend my limited funds on getting it running, steering, stopping - can I drive it with this setup until I save for a new rear setup? Will the acceleration be so weak it will be undrivable?

As for RPMs, I live in Oregon so speed limits for cruising are fairly low, 55-65mph.