Manually shifting an automatic transmission

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Aug 26, 2012 | 11:02 PM

Dave2488

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From: Dorr, mi

Manually shifting an automatic transmission

Hello. I have a 1977 ford highboy and was wondering what harm could be done if i would manually shift the 3 speed automatic. I know its not the best on gas mileage but its fun every once and a while to crank up the rpms before shifting or to downshift to second.

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:06 PM

keiths78f150

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From: Southern Illinois

Good way to break something, especially on a 35 year old vehicle. Do what you want if you have "fun" doing it though.

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:13 PM

Dave2488

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From: Dorr, mi

Haha, yeah i forgot to say their is no kickdown linkage either

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:14 PM

85e150

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Holding a gear for a hill or big load--not a bad idea.

Forced downshifts for decel--not a good idea.

Forced downshifts for accel--depends, probably not too good on your motor if it's anywhere near stock, as a lot of '77s never saw 4000 rpm stock.

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:15 PM

gpence

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From: Palmyra

your fine just remember that if & when you over rev it and break it you got to fix it. lol

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:17 PM

gpence

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From: Palmyra

you want a kick down linkage? think I have like 5 or 6 laying around. YEAH I'M A PACK PAT

Aug 26, 2012 | 11:19 PM

Dave2488

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From: Dorr, mi

nah. i have a kickdown linkage just it doesnt fit with the edelbrock carb. ill have to fab it up one of these days

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Aug 27, 2012 | 10:35 AM

Dave2488

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From: Dorr, mi

Yeah. im still trying to get rid of the giant dead spot when you stomp on it.. lol

Aug 27, 2012 | 04:23 PM

#10

hav24wheel

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From: North Dakota

All you have to do is keep the engine from over reving. I really don't see anything breaking with a manual shift. I manually shift C6s all the never broke anything doing it.