I'm going to guess 60 lbs

 

Just a thought. If the T18 is "thinner" up top than the ZF5 then moving it rearward 7" it still might be smaller than the ZF5. I don't know, but it's just a thought of a different way to do it.

 

The 18/19 cast iron cases certainly are more compact than the ZF alloy housing.
Darn things are bulletproof too.

 

I'm sacrificing a some mileage already. Were either of those transmission overdrive? I might consider a four speed overdrive in place of the ZF. I understand durability, but I'd like to keep it around 15mpg if I can. I'm only getting low 20's with the 2.4L.

I'm also a bit concerned with weight. I am estimating the 331 at about 475 pounds. The torsion bars are only 33% stronger than stock. I really don't want to be changing them annually.

 

No, both are 1:1 in top.
The T18 and some versions of the T-19 have 6.32:1 first.

 

Yeah, the NV case (also case iron) is more compact than a ZF too.

There were some lighter duty NV3500/3550 used in 1/2 ton dodge trucks and jeeps. Not sure about their durability, but I would guess they are somewhat compact compared to a ZF.

 

You could always use an aluminum block and titanium rods...

 

I already have 10 grand planned for this engine! I need to find case dimensions on these transmissions to better plan the build.

 

A 5.0 is ~450# fully dressed. (at least my '85 was)

Aluminum intake would drop 20#
PMGR starter another 5.
Aluminum waterpump another 5.
Aluminum heads???

This post: ZF 5 speed manual – Transmission Guide | ClassicBroncos.com Tech Articles
says the small block s42 weighs 175#

 

If the ZF is 175#, it would be a better option than a NV4500. Those come in at 200#.......

 

Jim- the TFS kit has aluminum heads.

RW- I agree the ZF is a better option. Since the drive shaft is custom, I still need a weight comparison between the NP208 and the BW1356 transfers. As long as both are manual shift variants.

 

I'll weigh the NP208 and BW1356 tomorrow and report back. I'm guessing the BW weighs between 5 and 10 lbs more. And both are manual shift.

 

Yes, but my '85 mustang weighed 450 with factory Ford iron heads and intake.
I was trying to guesstimate how much you would save from stock.

Gary,
You should get a load cell for your engine hoist!

 

I greatly appreciate that.

 

I'd like a load cell, but the old bathroom scales work for most things. I'm going to weigh the heads, intakes, water pumps, and even carbs to determine how much weight the aluminum diet has shed from Dad's truck.