Technical Trouble finding a clutch for a FE Ford to a top loader trans.

I've got a 1960 Ford Starliner with a 390 in it and a top loader four speed out of a 65 or 66 Ford. The input shaft is a ten spline that is 1 in 3/8 diameter. The clutch disk is 11 inches and that's the problem I'm having is everything I find is 10 inches. I'll include a couple of pics and numbers off the trans. Anybody have any recommendations Or part numbers as I'm just trying to replace the clutch with a stock type unit or maybe a small upgrade.

 

Are you sure the input shaft is 1 3/8"? that doesn't sound right for a top loader. Pics?

 

Here's one... FORD McLeod Racing 75148 McLeod StreetPro Clutch Kits | Summit Racing

More here.... FORD Clutch Kits - 1.375 in. Input Shaft Diameter - Free Shipping on Orders Over $109 at Summit Racing

The trick when doing a search is noting the larger input shaft diameter.

 

That's the hi-po big-block version. Not common, but they're out there.

 

Give this guy a call.

 

Clutch issue huh? Sounds shifty, hehe.

 

One other thing that should be noted. Have the casting number off the bellhousing when ordering. Ford had more than one FE car bellhousing. Ford used a long-style pressure plate as OEM and that required a specific bellhousing for clearance with the 11" unit. I've been told that 'some' 11" diaphram style plates will fit the 'smaller' bells if that's what you have (sometimes with some light grinding) but it may pay to verify this.

 

If you have a used up one and can't replace it have yours rebuilt. A place in Portland called Ott's friction supply does it.

 

I picked up a 61 Starliner a few years ago that the PO seemed to just piece it together. It has an older long type starter bellhousing but was converted to the short starter and 184 tooth flywheel. It came with a 11in. diaphragm type pressure plate and disc. The clutch linkage was equally odd and may have even been from a GM car. Being a Ford guy I chased down all the correct linkage for it. I kept the short starter and pressure plate (looked new) and everything worked fine.

 

Or maybe not shifty? Hmmnnnn.

 

And all 1-3/8’s 10 spline units are close ratio , 2.33 first gear, versus 2.78 for the wide.

 

Nice to know that it's a close ratio. And I think I have the clutch set figured now. Since everyone likes pictures, I'll send a picture of the car as it is hamb friendly.

 

sounds like Cool project. had a OT '66 Fairlane GT with warmed up 390 & close ratio 4 speed with tall rear gears. a slug from stop but, at 70mph could shift into 2nd gear and would really fly.

 

I've got the trans out, so it's kinda stuck on the lift, but you get the picture.

 

If that's the clutch disc and pressure plate below the trans, you have a long-style pressure plate.

Nice looking '61....

 

Yup, thanks, I know it's a long style and I've got one coming.

 

Mike, the. name has changed to Fleet Pride, last time I was in there, none of the old employees, including Chang, who was the clutch expert.

 

That's not good news. Guess it's time to update my Rolodex.

 

1-1/16 or 1-3/8 dia x 10 spline can be 2.32 first gear [close ratio]. B302 Mustangs used small input close ratio 4spds.

 

I stated all big input Toploaders were close ratio, back in the 70's drag racers wanted the 2.78 gear but wanted big input to keep from twisting the splines. The answer was to have Doug Nash, put the 2.78 gear on a large input shaft. And while he was at it, make it a pro shift by removing every other tooth on the synchro. I have this setup, and will probably set up an extra trans for racing only.

 

That's slick!

 

As stated “big spline” top loader . Clutch disc and pressure plate from 70 429 SCJ Cobra , will Fix you up fat . 63 1/2 427 had 12 spring pressure plate with no counter weights , if you want to go that direction . 11in disc is truck or HP car stuff .