Hello everyone!! I'm new to the H.A.M.B. and new to this group. I have a '55 Ranch Wagon that has been in the family since 1955. It sat in my uncles garage for a little over 30yrs. I took it over about a year and half ago. Since then the motor has been brought back to life. I recently sold the original Inline 6 and ******. I got a sbf 302 and AOD out of '85 Ford pick-up. I need some help with what motor mounts to exactly get and I also need to know if I can use the stock ****** mount or do I need to get a different kind?? I would greatly appreciate all and any info. Thanks a lot!!! Zach
I have one more question. Can I use my stock drive line and have it lengthened or shortened to fit or do I have to get a completely different one??? Thanks again!!! Zach
Welcome from So Cal. Sounds like a great project. Post some pics when you get a chance. How to post pictures. To find which motor mounts and all other parts you will need for the new motor, check out the FAQs. I think you can use the stock trans mount but you might have to install it upside down. I had a new drive shaft made (mine was too short) using the ends from my trans & rear end, it cost about $100. I have a 302/5 speed in mine and it went in without too much trouble. Good luck & be sure to post pics of the instal.
Your ranch wagon has the same wheelbase as 1954-56 cars in many cases you can use a 1986 Crown Vic driveshaft and it will be the correct length and correct front yoke and you would use a conversion rear U-joint to attach to the rear,but I researched a lot of vendors and came up empty on a listing for your wagons rear u-joint as ranch wagons use a different rear end than the cars did.This is the source for conversion U-joints:http://www.drivetrainamerica.com/t-sdl_catalog.aspx Contact them during the day and use the online chat and see if they can help you.
I'm doing a '55 Ranch Wagon with a 351w and aod as well. I might be able to help with some stuff, feel free to message me with any questions.
UPDATE! I have the Ford Parts CD-ROM and it shows the 1955-56 Ford Ranch Wagon rear U-joint here is a source using the Ford part number:http://www.nospartsltd.com/product-p/b5az4635a.htm
Thanks Jeff!! So, the 1986 Crown Vic drive line plus the U-joint conversion kit will work for the wagon?? Just want to be sure before I buy. I'll be buying these tomorrow if they will 100% work.
I guess you needed more info, the Crown Vic drive shaft is what I used and is the same length as what is needed for your Ranch wagon BUT ranch wagons have a different rear end than the sedans do and will require a different conversion u-joint than what works on the cars,so before you buy anything contact drivetrainamerica by the link I posted above to see if a conversion u-joint is available (use the chat line they have available to check) your present rear joint is a GMB 210-2031 the Crown Vic rear joint is GMB 210-0153 the conversion joint has to be a combo of both to bolt up,the other option is take both shafts to a local driveline shop and have them weld your old end to the newer shaft.It would be best to have the engine and transmission in first so you can take a final measurement before you buy the driveshaft and parts.Here is a helpful link to show you how:http://www.dennysdriveshaft.com/how_to_measure.html