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Old Nov 21, 2010 | 07:41 PM
  #1  
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brebt78
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shifter questions

hello all,
I have a 78 2wd f100 that I'm trying to convert to a four speed top loader. I have the transmission but I still need a shifter. I've been told that I need a four speed shifter that is specifically made for a truck. Anyone have any idea where I could find one for a reasonable price or any ideas on how to modify a car shifter to fit my application.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
 
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Old Dec 1, 2010 | 07:41 PM
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what is a 4 spd top loader??? i have a 4 spd in my 79 (with the granny low) and the reason for the bends in the shifter is because 1st and reverse have MAJOR throw, like almost hitting the dash in first and the shifter against the seat in reverse.....so i imagine anyold shifter wouldnt work.....probably wouldnt be able to get into first.
 
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Old Dec 1, 2010 | 08:09 PM
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Isn't a Toploader a transmission with the gearshift bolted down to the top of the trans

whereas other manual trans shift on the side with linkages ?
 
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Old Dec 1, 2010 | 08:14 PM
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Ford toploader 4 speeds came in cars only, and started in 1964. Hurst, ect sell shifters for them. You can see one here: ford toploader 4 speed - Google Search
 
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Old Dec 1, 2010 | 10:22 PM
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Nathan Plemons
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Toploader refers to the design of the transmission. If I recall correctly it is because it has one top plate for which all of the service on the trans can be performed. There were 3 speed and 4 speed toploaders and they all shifted through a linkage. I believe my old column shift is technically connect to a toploader.

Drag racers love them because they are relatively simple, relatively strong, and relatively small and light.
 
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Old Dec 1, 2010 | 10:31 PM
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steponit
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Hmmm

google works

Ford Toploader transmission - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 
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