I've heard shifting these transmissions is a lot like gator wrestling. I dunno, I have'nt put the truck together yet, but I wanna convert to a hydraulic clutch to make it a little easier. I'm wondering if anyone has already done this. Trans is a NP5452 out of a 79 F600(pics in gallery). Going in a 79 F350 4x4 w/460. I thought I'd just get a hydraulic clutch setup out of something newer and splice the linkage at a point that would give it the best leverage and travel.
Is there a certain model that would be best for a clutch donor?

Thanks guys.

 

A hydraulic clutch will make NO difference in the way the trans shifts.

google 'hydraulic clutch conversion' and find:

Clutch Kit - JEGS High Performance

and others.

That trans going to bolt up to a bell that will work on your 460?

 

Trans was bolted to a 370 industrial engine, it is a 385 family engine just like the 460 and shares the same bolt pattern. The bell housing's bolt pattern is unique, or I would just bolt on a 4 speed BBF bell. It will require some "customizing" of the pilot bushing, but I know a couple guys that have done it.

I am not convinced that the hydraulic clutch will make absolutely NO difference. I realize it will not change the lack of sychronizers, but it will have to make the clutch engage/disengage better. What would be the motivation for making all the newer trucks hydraulic clutch if there were no advantage?
Thanks for your help.

 

It's easier to install and design, and does release the clutch more reliably than linkage prone to misadjustment due to cab/frame flex or engine movement. Having said that, I assumed proper clutch actuation for either mechanical or hydraulic--and if your mechanical linkage works correctly, and the hydraulic works correctly, the trans will shift the same.

No synchros? Why are you using that? A ZF will bolt up.

What trans produced for mediums has no synchros? The 4 speed in our '58 F600 was synchro in 2-3-4.