385 series-what trannys?
#1
03-17-2003, 12:43 AM
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: CA
Posts: 662
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
385 series-what trannys?
I'm thinking of swapping out my 302 ('73 F-100 3 sp manual) for a
385 series engine. I have little experience with this type of conversion, primarily with what trannys will work.
I like manuals but would consider an automatic if it would be easier...but what automatic? What do I need to look for as far as bellhousings, input shafts, flywheels, bolt patterns, etc?
Your experience would be most appreciated!
385 series engine. I have little experience with this type of conversion, primarily with what trannys will work.
I like manuals but would consider an automatic if it would be easier...but what automatic? What do I need to look for as far as bellhousings, input shafts, flywheels, bolt patterns, etc?
Your experience would be most appreciated!
#2
03-19-2003, 04:12 PM
385 series-what trannys?
Well. My knowledge of auto trannies that fit are limited to the c-6, and the FMX. There is an adapter you can buy so you can put a smaller c-4 behind a 385 series. I personally wouldn't recomemnd doing that. A 385 series motor can burn up a c-4 easily, and the FMX clutch bands wear out really fast too. I persoanlly would go with a c-6 if you want an auto tranny. They are very tough, but they take a lot of power to turn.
As far as maual trannys go, The two most common trannys are the NP435, and the T-18. The T-18 is tough, and granny is low. like 6.34:1 I believe. The NP435 has a lower granny, like 6.32:1 and it shifts a little smoother too.
Well I hope I gave you some ideas.
-Also, the 385 series bellhousing is different than the FE series. So you need one from a 351M, 400, 370, 429, or 460 in order for it to fit. And the FMX auto tranny has a bolt on bellhousing as well. same design as manual bellhousing.
-Also, a little trick that I've seen and done is on a 370, 429, or 460 motor, use a manual flywheel from a 390 motor, then you can run the bigger 12'' clutch instead of the 11" clutch.
As far as maual trannys go, The two most common trannys are the NP435, and the T-18. The T-18 is tough, and granny is low. like 6.34:1 I believe. The NP435 has a lower granny, like 6.32:1 and it shifts a little smoother too.
Well I hope I gave you some ideas.
-Also, the 385 series bellhousing is different than the FE series. So you need one from a 351M, 400, 370, 429, or 460 in order for it to fit. And the FMX auto tranny has a bolt on bellhousing as well. same design as manual bellhousing.
-Also, a little trick that I've seen and done is on a 370, 429, or 460 motor, use a manual flywheel from a 390 motor, then you can run the bigger 12'' clutch instead of the 11" clutch.
Last edited by 76custom_250; 03-19-2003 at 04:19 PM.
#4
03-19-2003, 04:21 PM
#5
03-19-2003, 07:12 PM
Elder User
