Banging gears in my Ford is a lot of fun. The hydraulic clutch makes it easy on the left leg. I intend to keep the Ford but am looking for a home for my big block. That could have an automatic in it, still be a lot less than scaring up a quality 5-speed and everything else. A built TH350 or 400 start at around $1100 and go up from there.
Just me,but if I were to use a automatic in a hot rod that will see far more use on the streeis than on the track I wouldn't use a power glide transmission,a turbo 350 or 400 would be my choice. With the power glide I keep waiting for it to shift to third! HRP
My '54 Ford Coupe is getting my new 406 as soon as I finish it. 406 FE with new 406 cam, solid lifters, Top Loader 3 speed close ratio HEAVY DUTY R-A-T ******, with Jeep tower and REAL floor shift, "cane" stick. I just like "the old days"...but 2 fast shifts vs. 3 lazy ones level out.
Definitely a 4 speed. Then again, I'm crazy enough to change my OT daily 1984 S-10 over from an auto. to a 5 speed. LOL.
I have several car type 4 speeds. But in my 55 I use a three speed. Ive got a pile of them. And I like to sidestep the clutch at high RPM. 4 speeds are just too durn expensive to tear up.
The RAT top loader ford that came behind the big blocks is plenty tuff. That same ford warner transmission was used in some Pontiac GTO.s and Olds 442's. The mustang version RAN that came behind the small blocks wasn't nearly as strong. Those FE powered ford trucks are a good source of the heavier RAT transmission. My GM -Chevy -BOP ****tershield is drilled to accept both the GM and Ford transmissions.
I looked into the Mcleod for my project a few months ago and didn't find many happy buyers but maybe that has changed in the last few months. Go with a TKO 600 5-Speed and you'll be glad you did. -EM
If I was doing a bracket/street car that would see 1/8 mile use, I'd go with the PG. I'm looking at a nice TH400 for my next toy.
Yeah, it was plagued with issues when it first came out. The TKO would probably be the best all around choice and the $$ is about the same.
I put an auto in my 32 ford pickup and I regret it every time I drive it! Sent from my SM-G955U using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
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