I have a close ratio 4 speed toploader from a 1965 Ford big block that I would like to install in my 1951 F1. I would appreciate any help or advice on this endeavor.

 

Well, I would think that getting an adapter bell housing to hook the two up shouldn't be much of a problem. And you will probably have to do some modifications to the trnasmission mount - or cut the old one and put in a new one.

You're long poll on this is going to be adapting your clutch pedal and actuator. On the F1 pushing the clutch pedal down rotates a shaft that goes all the way through the clutch cover on the stock transmission and as it rotates, it pushes the throw out bearing forward to raise the pressure plate.

On the newr cars and trucks, the clutch pedal rotates a shaft that pushes a rod and that in turn pushes the clutch fork back which pivots at the bell housing and pushes the throw out bearing forward.

Two different motions (rotation and lineal push). So, you may have to find an adaptor bell housing that supports you current pedals, or install a newer style clutch/brake pedal assembly.

 

I agree with Julie, the other option would be to adapt hanging pedals and hydro clutch.

I have a few toploaders here and the tranny mounts are about 3" further back over the original trans. If you putting in an new engine you may have enough room to move the engine forward a bit and use the original tranny crossmember. or raise the engine up to use the original crossmember...

 

Thanks Julie and Bob. I have a bare truck without an existing cross member or engine mounts. I will look into the hanging pedals and hydraulic system. Thanks for your advice.


Freddie

 

I heard ranger pedals work well.

 

I have to say your truck will definitely be able to cut the mustard with that engine. My dad had a 351 Cleveland in a mercury cyclone years ago and he would reek havoc on all the chevys in town, even 454 chevells.

 

Big block toploaders have a shorter pilot shaft than small block transmissions. So unless you can obtain a special pilot bushing, it won't work behind your Cleveland.

The next issue will be the tailshaft housing. Do you know exactly which model of car it came from? Each model had their own tailshaft housing, and shifter placement. Compact and intermediate transmissions are the same length, and the tail housings will interchange, allowing you an opportunity to custom fit your shifter to where it would fit best in your truck. Full size cars had a longer transmission, and do not interchange with the others. If that is the one youy have, it may be harder to make fit. This chart might help with your identification.
Tailhousing ID Chart

 

Thanks for the info Wayne. The 31 spline toploader that I have came of out a galaxy with a 429. My plans are to use the shifter that mounts in place of the top cover on the transmission. I am hoping that I will be able to find a modified bearing type bushing to replace the standard pilot bushing. I read that this improves shifting.

Freddie

 

not to discourage you but I've been looking jeep top shift tower for about a year+ I came across one and it was $300 you may have to get the whole tranny to get the tower. I ended up selling that toploader.

 

The jeep t176 tranny has the top needed for the conversion - they sell for 300 - 450 used.
David Kees makes a new top - last I looked it was 450
Either one places the shifter in the original floor location.
Modify rear tranny mount
Big spline slip yoke
Shorten drive shaft.
Get Ford 9"
You won't be able to get all the power to the ground - Rip it up

 

Dick,
I obtained a smoking deal on a nine inch rear end and a positive traction third member with 3.00 gears for only $200. I will have the driveshaft built to match the tranny and rear end by the local driveline guys once everything is mounted. Thanks for the advice.