Hey guys, I found an ad on Craigslist for a t85 O/D out of a 49 - 51 Lincoln for $500. My question is a two parter: First - other than the electrics (6 vs 12 volt), how different would this tranny be from a later model, specifically from a '59 Galaxie. Would it work with a 223? Is that a reasonable price for a t85? Second - I know that other car companies used the BW T85 / T86 O/D trannys - are any of these compatible with the 223? I know that there are t5 adapters available but I would like to retain my column shifted 3spd and the 223 runs to good to be tossed out. Thanks for your input - MO
It will work with the 223 with the right bellhousing, which may or may not exist. A '49 - '51 Lincoln would of most likely had a 337 flathead, and they had a unique bellhousing pattern if my memory is correct. $500 is too steep for what you need. You should be able to find a 3 spd+OD out of a late 50's, early 60's Galaxie for $150 - $250 and it will bolt right in. Much easier then the Lincoln box.
The more common T86 w/OD is all you need behind a 223 unless you just abuse it a great deal. The T85 is a heavier duty unit, both the trans and the OD unit. I do not know first hand the transmission bolt pattern of the '49/'51 Lincoln...it may be the same as '49/'64 Ford & '51/'64 Merc ....but it may not.... In any case, I agree with FrozenMerc regarding the T86 ......
A couple more points... 1958-62 Ford used a 23 spline transmission, most every other year used a 10 spline. You may have to get a new clutch disc. Also, Ford put an 11" clutch in cars originally equipped with OD (at least in '58). If you do not already have OD, then you might consider switching to an 11" clutch. Flywheel is the same as a Y Block.
Thanks for the info. My 59 Galaxie originally had a OD unit in it but was swapped out for what appears to be a standard non OD t86 which has reverse blown out of it. I saw the listing on the local Craig's list for the Lincoln unit and was just curious as to how different it would be. http://toledo.craigslist.org/pts/4408553740.html Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
The Jalopy Journal
