Transmission Change
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Junior User
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Transmission Change
I purchased a 1995 F-250 with a 351W about half a year ago. The truck runs phenomenal. I would like to know if it would be worth it to go through the hastle of changing an anutomatic transmission to a manual? What types of things would I have to change? Driveshafts, transfer cases, computers, sterring columns, etc?? Any information on this topic would be greatly appreciated? If I did this project how much would I be looking at spending?
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2003
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From: North Carolina
I'm not sure but I'll take a stab. Here is what I can imagine you having to change: crossmembers, maybe an adapter to hook up the tranny to the engine (depending on what tranny you swap in), shorter/longer driveshaft(s), new tranny lines. Not sure if you're tranny is computer-controlled or not but if so, obviously something will have to be changed. I'm not positive on those things, I'm just taking a fairly educated guess. As to whether or not it would be worth the hassle, I'd ask why you want to do this? It seems to me that the money you spend doing the swap might be better used rebuilding your current tranny.
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2002
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From: Bonita Springs FL
You'll need a new computer, a pedal assembly, driveshafts (or just lengthen/shorten the ones you have), crossmember, and probably a transfer case. Of course, you'll also need the entire clutch assembly, including the master cylinder and all the plumbing.
When you do put the manual in, make sure that it will bolt up to the motor. 351s, 302s, and 300s share the same bellhousing pattern and are all interchangeable. If possible, buy the tranny and transfer case out of the same vehicle so you know they match.
As far as cost goes, it will vary widely depending on where you buy the stuff from, what you buy (you didn't mention what tranny you want), and how lucky you are.
When you do put the manual in, make sure that it will bolt up to the motor. 351s, 302s, and 300s share the same bellhousing pattern and are all interchangeable. If possible, buy the tranny and transfer case out of the same vehicle so you know they match.
As far as cost goes, it will vary widely depending on where you buy the stuff from, what you buy (you didn't mention what tranny you want), and how lucky you are.
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This is all very good information tat you guys have provided me with. I have 4:10 gears and an automatic 5 speed. The numbers I am unaware of but I would like to put in a 5 speed. Any other information will be greatly appreciated.
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Posting Guru
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Originally Posted by Mcyktor98
I have 4:10 gears and an automatic 5 speed.
Will this project be worth the hastle?
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Well I understand your opinion and have to make an important decision. You are probably right. I am still young and would like to have some fun with my engine. I am sure you know where I am coming from. My truck, I am about 90% sure, has 4 gears and overdrive. My best bet is to just go and get a different truck. It is my first truck and looks damn good and I paid for it. I am sure that you all can understand that. Any other information will be greatly appreciated. Does anyone have any experience with this type of project?
Posting Guru
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Originally Posted by Mcyktor98
My truck, I am about 90% sure, has 4 gears and overdrive.
If you really have a five speed automatic transmission it is a custom built transmission and a one of a kind.
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Well I understand your opinion and have to make an important decision. You are probably right. I am still young and would like to have some fun with my engine. I am sure you know where I am coming from. My truck, I am about 90% sure, has 4 gears and overdrive. My best bet is to just go and get a different truck. It is my first truck and looks damn good and I paid for it. I am sure that you all can understand that. Any other information will be greatly appreciated. Does anyone have any experience with this type of project?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2003
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From: West Cornwall, CT
Your '95 F-250 has an E4OD transmission. The '95 and later E4OD's are excellent transmissions and will take just about anything your 351W will dish out. If you want harder shifts, a transmission shop could install a shift kit.
Manual transmissions are OK, but that E4OD will shift hard and fast - perhaps better than the manual transmission will.
I'd stick with the auto transmission and look at modifying other parts of the truck with the money that the manual conversion would require. Steeper gears will give you more acceleration if you need it. Larger tires adds to the looks (you can run 12.5-33's with minor front bumper trimming), and engine mods can add some extra power. Lift kits are always a plus.
Just my $0.02 worth
Lou Braun
Manual transmissions are OK, but that E4OD will shift hard and fast - perhaps better than the manual transmission will.
I'd stick with the auto transmission and look at modifying other parts of the truck with the money that the manual conversion would require. Steeper gears will give you more acceleration if you need it. Larger tires adds to the looks (you can run 12.5-33's with minor front bumper trimming), and engine mods can add some extra power. Lift kits are always a plus.
Just my $0.02 worth
Lou Braun
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I appreciate it Braun. Those are all good ideas. You are right the transmission that I have, the E 40D, is an excellent transmission. It is very dependable and like you said will take just about anything that I dish out. I just want the truck to shift when I want it to shift. I want to get some life out of my brakes whenI can use my gears. But overall I would be best off just getting a different rig if I want a manual.