I have a 55 F-100 that i installed a 302 with a c-6. I used a new motor mount and another crossmember for the tranny. what I wanted to know, if I can remove the old rear engine crossmember. As it is now, I would have to remove the engine to take out the transmission. Also how much play should there be at the driveline yoke at the transmission. I have installed a new driveline but I can push the yoke up and down a little bit. I get a little bit of vibration but the new driveline and changing the angle of the rear end has helped.
thanks for any help.

 

Alot of guys remove the cross member you're talking about. I would NEVER remove it! I have seen many 53-56's were the frame cracks where the front cab mount horns connect. I feel the removal of the member will only amplify this weak spot.
JMO

Kevin Bigwin

 

what do you think of cutting the crossmember out and welding some bolt on plates the reinstlling the crossmember?

 

All I can say is there needs to be something there or near there maybe the motor mount cross member and trans cross member is enough. I cant say for sure.

Kevin Bigwin

 

did you use a crossmember type motormount or individual ones? With the full crossmember mount IMHO it would be safe to remove all or the center portion of the bellhousing CM. The original engine used a 3 point mounting arrangement: center front and 2 sides of the bellhousing to allow frame twist. Unless you plan on offroading you won't be twisting the frame a lot.