I'm running a S-10 5 speed trans in my 31 model a with original 4 banger , I have a really nice Pinto engine I want to swap for the 4 banger I'm running now , The pinto has a C3 auto trans now , My question is , what bell housing , clutch , PP do I need to get the s-10 ****** hooked up to the 2.3 Pinto engine , The original model a engine is in great shape but it's not what I want , I'm want to do the Pinto swap until I get my 1953 flathead rebuilt this coming winter , ANY help will be appreciated , I built my own adapter plate to put the 5 speed onto the A engine , was hoping there is some bolt on parts I could use this time instead of fabing an adapter plate . Vern
I've had experience with Pinto 4-cyl. engines in my mother-in-law's Pinto wagon, my sister's Pinto , and a Mustang II, all of which were equipped with automatics. Numerous times, while up-shifting at wide-open throttle, the engines would spit out a rocker arm. I would have to pull the valve cover, replace the rocker arm (no tools required), and be on my way. As far as I know, no permanent damage was done, but this was unique to those engines. Personally, I would p*** and look for something better.
I realize you have the Pinto engine but you might want to consider a 4 banger Chevy for ease of mating it to the T-5.. They were used in Chevy II's as well as boats and maybe other applications as well. A 140 Mercruiser engine without the marine accessories mated to the T-5 in a Model A would be a sweet setup IMO.
Don't have any personal experience, but you might want to consider a Ranger 5 speed. Keep your trans for another project and it probably cheaper to buy a Ranger trans than an adapter of some sort. https://www.hotrodders.com/threads/pinto-ranger-5-speed-manual-trans-questions.199134/
I owned a stock Pinto with the small engine, was a GR8 engine. Had a Mustang II & didn't baby it, never a problem. Have had 2 Turbo Coupe T-Birds, both auto trans Those 23oo T C engines were awsome & bullit proof.
The Jalopy Journal
