Need Transmission suggestions!

Hey guys, just wanted some recomendations for a manual transmission thats gonna go behind a 63 ford 390? Its goin in a roadster project Im working on...

 

If you're on the cheap, mid sixties three speeds with fully synchronized gears are pretty cheap.

 

for full fun go with a close ratio top loader 4 speed.

 

You don't need a close ratio four speed for a lightweight roadster - the engine will outpull your ability to shift it that quickly. I recommend a wide ratio T&C toploader.

Second choice - Toploader three-speed-plus-OD from a mid-eighties van or pickup.

 

I'd go with a Richmond 6 speed. 3:27 first gear and a .76 overdrive. Great for around town and highway cruising.

 

Only choice for an FE in my mind is the Ford toploader. Its hard to break.If you are going to be easy on it, you can get the imposter toploader which is a 3 speed with overdrive for the 4th gear that came in Granadas and some vans/trucks.Looks just like the stronger 4speed.

 

Lots of choices, all depend on the thickness of your wallet...

T86 3 spd + OD

4 spd Top Loader

Tremec TKO 5 spd

Richmond 6 speed.

Like it was said above, a 390 in a lightweight roadster will not need close ratios, a Toploader would probably be the most fun if you are OK giving up overdrive.

Good Luck

 

Something with an overdrive, or two. Best of all worlds. You will loose nothing. May not be "traditional" but neither is $5.00/gallon gas.

 

Thanks guys. Im not too concerned about fuel economy, or else the 390 wouldnt be going in it in the first place. Im thinking the mid 60s toploader my dad has will be fine, just wanted some opinions. Transmission-wise, Im not too savy.

 

Borg Warner t-10 or toploader would be great choices.