While this question is about an E-150, please consider this to be a F-150 since 351W - 3speed overdrive [4speed standard] E-150’s are extremely rare. [about 1 in a thousand vans made in 77 and 78 for they had to be ordered]

I have a stock 2 barrel carb on a healthy 351W.
I have purchased a 89 parts van with a 3.53 possi rear end that apears to work properly. While I currently have a non possi 3.53 in the van, I beleive that my 78 came with a 3 to 1 rear end new.

The first gear on my 3speed overdrive [4speed standard] seems to be too high for Portland Oregon [we have a lot of hills on my side of town]. Also when I am driving on the freeway with a half a ton or so of building materials, Overdrive is useless and I use third.

Did ford make the 3speed overdrive with a varity of gear ratios?
Is there another ford manual trans, with a compatable linkage on the side that I should consider?
What rear end ratios have those of you with an F-150 been using with this engine and trans?

Many thanks,
David

 

the old time (mustange type) toploaders have a lower 1st and no o/d. but i think if ya swaped out to the lower geared rearend youll be happy with the results

 

why not just install 4.10 gears???

 

Did ford make the 3-speed overdrive with a variety of gear ratios?

Possibly

Is there another ford manual trans, with a compatable linkage on the side that I should consider?
I assume this is a floor shift and not a column shift ?