Technical The Magic of the '39 Ford Transmission

Jive-Bomber submitted a new blog post:

The Magic of the '39 Ford Transmission

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Shifting the things is rather therapeutic. Listening to RPM’s and sliding the long lever. Completely different than any modern transmission.

 

Besides the floor shift, 39 was the last year for quite a few things: opening windshields, wide five wheels, bulb style headlights, the rumble seat, one piece door glass and I think it was the last for the banjo steering wheel. The 39 has always been one of my favorites.

 

The synchro clutch assembly in the illustration looks to be of the earlier design

 

Yeah, something like 'magic'...That's what I thought when I pulled my '32 five window hiboy out Grandma's driveway.
Backed out into the street, selected low gear...Revved 296" of fresh flatmotor and popped the clutch.
=BANG!!!= Just like 'magic'.
I was only 16 but learning fast. Some 'magician'!

 

Somebody cooler than me once said, and I paraphrase; "A man's got to know his transmission's limitations."

 

I don't know yet by actual use (I have a 39 std) but do they downshift to 1st from 2nd without the magic feel of the double-clutch?

 

Nope. No down synchro to first.

 

I've got a 25 tooth gear set in my '39 transmission in my '32 Roadster. Combined with the Columbia I do not abuse the drivetrain. It's important to respect the ancient parts. But it sure is fun to drive!!! I laugh every time I engage the Columbia, click click.