3 speed?
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Senior User
Joined: Jul 2009
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3 speed?
I just pulled my motor out of the donor truck tonight. 302 freshly built. But it has a 3 speed behind it. I would like to get some opinions on the 3 speed. What do ya think i should do keep it or use it for a boat anchor? I like the idea of using it but I know nothing about them. THANKS
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2004
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From what I understand the 3 speed is of the Ford "toploader" design which is used by many a drag racer today. It may not be bulletproof, but they're pretty stout. To my knowledge none of these trucks offered an overdrive so all you're gaining with a 4 speed is likely a bulldog low. The three speed is supposed to be relatively easy to rebuild as well.
I have one in my '74 and really like it. The original column shift serves as a theft deterrent to modern day idiots. Of course for that matter, a manual transmission in general does that.
Some of the four speeds may be built a little tougher but it all depends on the intended usage of your truck. If you're gonna be towing and hauling a lot, look for something else. If it's just a driver, the 3 will be all you'll ever need.
I have one in my '74 and really like it. The original column shift serves as a theft deterrent to modern day idiots. Of course for that matter, a manual transmission in general does that.
Some of the four speeds may be built a little tougher but it all depends on the intended usage of your truck. If you're gonna be towing and hauling a lot, look for something else. If it's just a driver, the 3 will be all you'll ever need.
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Thanks . The truck is a show truck but I am gonna drive it often. I want to put the shifter in the floor. I think i am gonna like having a manual tranny I had a 360 in it before with a c-6. can't wait to get her back on the road
Nothing wrong with using that trany for what you want. Like it was said "easy to work on". Put you a good looking floor shifter on it and you are ready to go. 
Junior User
Joined: May 2009
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From: Richmond Virginia
I currently drive a 78 myself . It came with a three speed from the factory and at one time , it had a floor shift . The problem with the "aftermarket shifters is the fact that parts vibrate loose . Of course you can't "Speed shift " on a column shifter either . Ford's 3 speed is a decent transmission as a driver or using it to do a days job .
Posting Guru
Joined: May 2007
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From: North Reading Mass
The biggest problem with 3 speeds use to be the column shifter jamming and the long throw to second from first. I had several Fords and Chevys that I converted to a Indy shifter that JC Whitney use to sell. I never had a 3 speed let me down and with the floor shifter set up right they shifted very well.
regards
rikard
regards
rikard
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2004
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Absolutely right you can't speed shift a column shift. Most problems with them though are with people who have them improperly adjusted or trying to use worn out parts. I actually like not having anything in the floorboard but to each their own.
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