Hello from Germany!

I have started restoring an 55 F100 and so far there aren't any big problems except body works.

So far I have got two questions and it would be great if you could help me.

1. How do I know if my truck (3 gear manual with steering shifter) has got an overdrive? I have got the shop manual but I am unable to realize if there is an overdrive or not.

2. In the cockpit/ cab there are some "open" holes where I don't know what switches should be in there.
There is one hole on the very left (I guess it could be the switch for the spotlight that my truck used to have). Another hole ist next to the ignintion light and I have no idea what it could be for.

It would be great if you could help me!
Have a nice one!
Andy

 

Hey Andy,
Welcome aboard! Nice to see a new member from Germany!
Let's put your questions back up to the top to see if we can get you some answers. No overdrive on the original transmission - you can get that by swapping in An AOD automatic if you don't mind making changes to your truck.

Ben in Austin
1950 F1

 

Wilkommen,

As for the transmission, you can check the cast number on the side of the transmission and it can tell you what kind it is. That is a good place to start.

Unless you are going for an original stocker, the holes can be setup however you want to lay out the dash. I have seen trucks with the starter push button, headlight, wiper, ignition switch, choke, throttle and cigarette lighter. Unused holes can be filled with plugs or welded shut. It's your preference.

 

If you have an original overdrive with all the components in place there are two pieces of evidence in the cab.
1. There will be a T-handle cable control mounted on the bottom edge of the dash on the left side of the steering column. In is engaged. Out is not engaged.
2. There will be a switch mounted to the floor board under the gas pedal.

 

Hi and thanks for all your answers.
Now I know that I don't have an overdrive and I will think about what I will do with my dash board.
Have a nice one!
Andy