I came across a '51 merc 3-speed overdive trans with the associated overdrive wiring and switches that I'm planning to install in the '52 F-1 this winter. My goal is to keep the column shifter. But, before I install it this winter, I was wondering IF and I do mean a BIG "IF" its possible to hook up a T-5 trans and still keep the column shifter. I'm not familiar with the ability to work the top loader of the T-5 into the column shifting linkages of the 3 speed. Having a 5 speed column shifter would make my day.

With the 3 speed overdive I know I'll have to modify the trans support setup and since I'm doing that, I figure I'd look into the T-5 first.

And yes, I also know I have an issue to work out regarding the master cylinder mounting with the overdrive setup. Thats why I also have a 2nd stock trans support. My goal, if I keep the 3 speed overdive, is to mount the 2nd trans support further back in the side frame rails since the overdrive trans is longer due to the overdrive case. Then I plan to cut off the original trans support leaving enough to still support the stock master cylinder, and then brace the cutoff end of the original support back to the new trans support location. The final work will be getting the driveshaft shortened.

Oh and why a 51 merc overdrive? It has the same clutch setup as the stock '52 F-1.

 

Chevy Astro Van ??? IIRC has the T-5 with remote linkage shift, (colum shift) so I've heard??? sounds doable and interesting keep us all posted and take lots of pictures.

have you seen the t-5 tech articles on the HAMB? enough reading to keep you busy for a few weeks.

Cheers

Josh

 

The Astro just has a more-forward floor shifter, never heard of a remote setup. They have a shifter position within an inch of a stock Ford 3-sp shifter.

I used to have a Mercedes that had a 4-sp on the column. You can't do it with simple linkages. A 5-sp would be an engineering challenge for sure. Probably be real sloppy too.

I was going down the same path as you, exactly. But I couldn't see a way to clear the solenoid. I'm sure it can be done, but you'd want the cab off to get at it. I wasn't willing to go that far. Good luck!

 

my bad, I thought I had heard they were a remote linkage shifter? oh ya. not on column but just remote... doh..

 

The Astro trans' that I have seen have the shifter offset about 6" to the left........dunno exactly why. Looks kinda mickey mouse......wish i had a pic!

 

I figure to modify the stock trans support to clear the overdrive solenoid while both, the trans and 2nd trans support are out of the truck and sitting on my work bench. Lots easier to work on...compared to: doing it all on my back on the floor under the truck or, pulling the whole cab off. If that doesn't work, I can aslo try fabbing a tubular support like I see for the T-5 setups using the 2nd trans support as a template for the frame support points.

 

I'm getting confused; I looked at some HAMB threads and see the reference to the offset shifter, and one that says the shifter is further back than the S-10, which is contrary to the threads/pics I previously saw and read about. An offset makes sense to bring the shifter nearer the driver, because the Astros have taller seats than a pickup. Personally I've never laid hands on an Astro T5, they must be rare as hen's teeth. How many soccer moms would want an Astro with a shifter?!

But none of the info says anything about a column shift T5 in anything.

 

Forget about column shifting a T5......it isn't gonna happen without SERIOUS re-engineering and fabrication.
T5's were used in Fords, GM's, and Jeeps (maybe others) in cars, trucks, vans, SUVs......so the combinations of tailshafts (shifter) and bolt patterns are endless.
The early S10 version works the best behind a flathead with it's near stock shifter location and adapters are available. I hope to install mine over winter.....

 

With or without Hydrac?

Citroen ID & DS models also had 4 on the tree as did 1963/64 Econolines with the optional 4 speed Dagenham trans.

When the Dagenham was installed in 1963/65 I-6 Falcons and 1965/66 Mustangs, the shift lever is on the floor.