I just picked up a 1948 F2, I like the truck, but hate the transmission (4 Speed).
What are my options for either a synchronized manual, or auto transmission.
I plan to do the explorer rear end swap, as well.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

Welcome! Your choices really depend on the engine. Whatchya got?

 

The original 8 cyl flathead.

 

Likely the 239 flathead - we just did a manual transmission swap on a 49 Mercury M68 (equivalent of the F3 so much of the drivetrain is the same I believe). Same engine block. The options that easily bolt up seem to be a Mustang Worldclass T5, or a S10 - we went with a 5-speed S10 which is not quite as robust but will be fine for what we plan to do with the truck. Anything else doesn't bolt up as easily and will require more adaptation. Never considered an automatic, so can't help you there.

Rear end on ours is now out of a Bronco - width works out well.

Others here helped us to narrow down that choice - I'm sure they will weigh in.

 

A/T (Ford-O-Matic) wasn't available for F100/350 until 1953.

Pic: Scroll down to 1952 manual transmissions.

 

Thanks for the info, can you also post the transmission info for the 1948, 1949, and 1950 trucks as well.
Ken

 

Upper pic: 1948/49, some 1950.

Lower pic: Some 1950, 1951/52, a bit of 1953 (same pic I posted in post #5).

 

I'd like a synchronized transmission in my 48 F2. It seems that the F1 3 speeds are easier to find.

What modifications are necessary to swap a 3 speed out of an F1, into a 1948 F2

 

I hated the crash box 4 speed in my F3 so I swapped in a T98 from an F6. Bolted in except for shortening the drive shaft a bit.

 

My E brake is not on the drum.,
I believe that all T98 transmissions utilize the drum hand brake.
Would I have to convert that system.

 

I bought mine complete with the e-brake. My T9 brake would have bolted on if I didn't get it. The only mod you would have to do is cut the hole in the trans cover.

If you have a working e-brake and don't want to use the trans mounted one just take the trans mounted parts off. The drive shaft will still bolt up without the drum in place. The drum is mounted behind the flange. You might need shorter mounting bolts?