525 Saginaw conundrum
- Thread starter 34fordy
- Start date
Bored&Stroked
Well-known member
Never mind . . . I think I had TOO little coffee when I posted this! LOL
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rich b
Well-known member
I'd look at removing the adapter plate and use a mount that replaces the original Ford mount. That will move the box closer to the rail providing more clearance. I've used both Pete & Jakes and Weedetr mounts; but with different engines, so I don't know if it would be the answer in your application; but worth looking into
34fordy
Well-known member
I believe you are right Rich. I think the adapter plates sold would work with overhead valve engines with the exhaust manifold higher. It would be good if the suppliers indicated that.
34fordy
Well-known member
****Hey fellas, I received more information from Heidts today. The adapter plate that has been shown on Fordbarn (AS-2089) is made for a small block Chevy and will not work with a flathead. They also make an AS-2095 for small block Ford which requires removal of the original Ford mounting plate. Then the AS 2095 replaces it and tucks into the frame for more clearance. I am going to order it and see how it works out. I will follow up with more info later. It's only money! LOL Don
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I've used several of the bolt in plates from P&J's and they worked great. They do require removal of the stock mounting plate. It moves the box a little closer to the frame. Remember Heidt's bought their way into the straight axle business, Pete and Jake's have lived the business.
34fordy
Well-known member
Not being a hot rodder I did not know that. At almost 80 I still have SO much to learn and appreciate everyone's help.
34fordy
Well-known member
This is a follow up to what worked for me. The Heidts AS 2089 which I tried first did not allow the 525 box to fit under the flathead exhaust manifold. I spoke with Heidts and was told the 2089 was designed mainly for a SBC. They have an AS 2095 made mainly for a SBF which I tried next because it would drop the box down somewhat to accommodate the SBF exhaust manifold. With just a bit of tweaking this turned out to work well. I also ordered a Pete&Jake's 5002 which was very well made but appeared to hold the box a bit higher than the Heidts AS 2095. At almost 80 it was a lot of work underneath and above but the end result was so good. The Saginaw box is much better for the weight of my 36 pickup. I also installed a 33/34 steering wheel as I did not like the Drake banjo steering wheel on a pickup. Just personal preference. I usually refrain from non-original parts but the outcome proved to be a great improvement. I think this would be Ol'Ron approved! LOL
34fordy
Well-known member
After doing this swap, I would think that the Ford box would be much easier and you could keep the original Ford switch at the bottom of the sector. It is always good to keep the vehicle as close to the original as you can. I do not think a properly rebuilt Ford box would be as easy to steer in a tight spot. I am very pleased with my result.