swapping diff and trans

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Mar 30, 2017 | 02:37 PM

Cobravii

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Mar 2017

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From: Fort McMurray

swapping diff and trans

Hi Guys,

I have a 1950 F-47 that is real new to me.
I have visions of replacing the trans to a T5Z tremec for sure and am considering going to a 9" ford diff.

Can anyone tell me what is involved in this swap?

Thanks,
Larry

Mar 30, 2017 | 05:04 PM

oneye

Mountain Pass

Joined: Oct 2014

Posts: 215

Likes: 2

I'll be doing the same thing myself this summer but in an F-1. What engine?

Mar 30, 2017 | 05:23 PM

Cobravii

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Mar 2017

Posts: 71

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From: Fort McMurray

stock v-8 flathead

Mar 30, 2017 | 06:21 PM

tip49

Cargo Master

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 2,757

Likes: 138

From: Alberta Canada

Swap

You'll need to consider:

adapter plate to mount trans to engine
possible modified tran inspection plate/hump
modified driveshaft to couple trans to diff
add crossmember to support transmission
adjust diff spring perches for pinion angle

Mar 30, 2017 | 07:36 PM

raytasch

Believe Nothing

Joined: Jun 2004

Posts: 7,514

Likes: 398

From: W. Central FL.

Be mindful of gear shifter position relative to the seat. I would question the need for the 9" with the T5.

Mar 30, 2017 | 09:33 PM

Cobravii

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Mar 2017

Posts: 71

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From: Fort McMurray

I was only thinking 9" for ease of working on and changing ratios. I kinda get the feeling the diff on these is a weak link.....
I see some factory style cast iron bell housings on eBay. They say a T-5 will bolt to it. Any oppinions?

Mar 30, 2017 | 11:15 PM

ALBUQ F-1

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jul 2004

Posts: 27,294

Likes: 1,055

From: NM

A stock "hogshead" (front half-bellhousing from a 4-sp spur gear trans) can be redrilled to accept a T5. Some T5's may bolt directly but there are other factors such as front bearing retainer diameter.

A '50 F-1 would have come with a 3.73 rear axle, or the optional 4.27 or (rare) 3.92. The 3.92 with a T5 is about ideal for a stock flathead. 1st gear with the S-10 T5's is pretty useless tho.

Here is a very well written and thorough article on all the work involved (although it doesn't cover the necessary butchering of the stock trans crossmember on 48-52's):
TECH: Ultimate T-5 Article | The H.A.M.B.