1952-59 Ford 3 on tree..any options.

As we've been doing this we kinda been laughing to ourselves thinking that there is a complete OEM way to go about this. Just haven't stumbled on the right parts combo and had to make it work

 

I'm with you. I think there's probably an OEM way to get this done, too. I am encouraged by the cast-in bosses in the bell housing which would indicate an alternative OEM bolt pattern. I'm also encouraged by your desire to share your success in the form of a kit. I'd suspect there is a strong and growing potential market for it. These mid-decade Fords are just starting to become popular.

 

trikepapa what motor are you wanting to run. Maybe I am mixed up with all the posts in this thread but I thought you wanted to run a SBF.

Missydad1 thanks for the explanation. You had me really confused there for a bit. LOL.

 

There is some good info on Google about Ford Overdrives '54 and later used the T-85 and T-86 transmissions,the T-86 was the weaker of the two and most common in 6 cyl cars,versions of the T-85 were used in Ford Trucks and also by some other car manufactuers.

 

I have a 50 Ford with 3 on the tree and thought about keeping it like it is but using a 4 speed trans . Have the 4 gears on the column shift and a reverse on a second rod with a small pull type handle on a rod coming thought the floor close to the seat where is would be hidden ! It can be don without many headaches .
Just a kool thought !

Jim

 

There is a way to use the 3 speed overdrive with just about any ford motor, you need to find a old school ford ****** guy and he can explain it to you. but from what i understand if you have the right bellhousing, the ****** bolts right up cause ford didnt change the mounting holes for the ****** on the bellhousing.