Trying to clear up some conflicting information. I’ve heard that a YBlock and FE have the same bellhousing bolt pattern, but that the transmissions are not actually interchangeable because of input shaft length. I’ve also heard that they are completely different bolt patterns. can anyone confirm what is true?
They’re different bolt patterns on the block. There is some overlap in the transmission bolt pattern. There may be differences in the bell housing opening for transmission input bearing retainer. I’m reaching way back in my memory. But I think the T-85’s on the early FE’s would bolt to either an FE or a Yblock. Tailshafts w or w/o overdrive vary by application. I can’t recall on the input shaft length, but I don’t remember it being a problem except between the granny truck 4 speeds and the lighter duty transmissions.
When I had the 62 Cruise-0-Matic installed in our 56 replacing the Fordomatic the shop used the Fordomatic bellhousing and the 56 air cooled torque converter with a hub changed to the correct size. The trans has the cooling lines to the radiator so it has both trans cooling systems.
Ford did us no favors in that aspect. With the exception of the 300 six and the windsors, every series is different.
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