Hey guys, wanted to join the group since we are in the process of building a 55 Fairlane and saw that there is a lot of good info here. I'll post as we go and put pics up if anyone is interested. The plan is to keep it pretty much stock except a well built 351, power steering, and disks up front. I'll be asking lots of questions as I go and maybe we can build this one together First question would have to be regarding the 3sd. The customer wants to keep the three-on-the-tree as this is the way she remembers driving it all these years, so...who is a good parts supplier for these ******s? I had a number for a shop up north that specialized in and sells rebuild kits but can no longer find their number. Any help?
Welcome to the group ! Do a check on the main board in the parts section . I think I remember someone having one last week or so for sale . If you have the right trans the connections are still around but costs way to much for me . If she like the standard shift and wants an OD then get 4 speed or T5 and have a floor shift . You could also put a 4 speed in and still use the column shift for the 4 gears and when she need a reverse . just put into neutral the make a small shifter for just reverse and put very close to the bottom of the seat since it will be only used when necessary . No one would ever know where the other forward gear cam from when they see her shift from the tree ! It's been done before ! Remember reverse is a separate shift rod ! You could even rework or up to under the dash too . I have a 55 Ford but going with a C4 . Now I also have a 50 Ford that still has the 3 on the tree so I am going with a 302 or 351w and leave the 3 on the tree . If I want more then I will put a 4 speed on the floor . There are some ideas to consider . Jim
Well she for sure wants it stock so I need to keep it on the column. Was the listing for a used ****** or a parts kit? Thanks
If you go with a 4 speed column shift, you can use an Overdrive lever under the dash and use a cable to operate reverse. I just saw this on a '54 Ford at Donut Derelicts last Saturday. Pretty slick install, and it all looks factory. You get a 4 speed, can use reverse and you dont have to cut a hole in the floor.
I was sure there was a better way for the reverse ! The more I think about this I think I am going to do that with my 50 Ford with the 3 on the tree seacret ! Talk about something special . That would really be damn kool to have like that ! Jim
Thanks for the replys the guys I was thinking of is Van Pelt sales and service in Ohio...They carry a lot of parts and knowledge for these trannies.
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