I am going to Louisiana to get a '48 flathead from a running car this weekend, and I told him I wanted the trans too. I didn't realize it was not a "39" top-loader style trans. I have a "39" that turns freely, otherwise condition unknown? I'm not gonna welch on the deal, but is there any reason I'd want this '48 trans if I already have the top-loader?
Gears from the ‘48 ****** will also transplant into an earlier toploader. Worth a thought for future use or to have on hand if your toploader needs help.
The trans was $200, engine was $500. I hope it's a good one, a bit of a gamble but I could probably sell off the parts if not.
48 trans potential has 10 less years miles on it. I put 48 gears in our 37 40 years ago. 35000 miles and still great. Well I did use a full rebuild kit and 39 short tower
About 1995, I was putting a hot 8BA into my '36 3-window. For a transmission, I had bought a '39 Ford transmission from an ad in Hemmings. The trans was complete, but some teeth were chipped, etc. I bought a post-war side shift with perfect looking gears as a donor. Those gears, new synchronizers, bearings, etc. went into the '39 case. It was the first time I had "built" a transmission, but it turned out well. matter of fact, it was the only piece of the drivetrain that I didn't break.
The Jalopy Journal
