Auto transmission

Cecil/WV

Cecil/WV

Well-known member
I'm considering changing my '59 Custom 300/292 to a 3 speed auto from a 2 speed auto. What fits and is it worth while?? I think I would need the transmission and shift indicator for the dash??
 
The best 3 speed gearbox swap is to fit an FMX. Do you have a Fordamatic or a 2 speed auto. If you have a Fordo it is possible to fit an FMX as it will almost bolt straight up to your bellhousing with some minor mods. These days probably the most popular is the AOD as it provides an overdrive, though it is not cheap when you factor in the adaptor plate. The 2 speeds fitted to 59's, I thought, we're fitted to 332 and 352.
This illustration should let you know what younhave.
f775de83.jpg

Regards
 
Thanks for the info and it is a 2 speed behind a 292 all original car with less than 30,000 miles.
 
Are you sure you have a two speed? I know that all Fordos at least up to 57 were three speed. However, they started off in 2nd and shifted to high. First gear would activate if you stomped on the gas or manually put it into low.

Another option is a C4. Flat-O-matic makes a nice conversion kit. And if you would like an overdrive, the AOD can be swapped in.
 
You can be sure when I say it is a 2 speed that it is a 2 speed. It is even listed it the owners manual as such. I'll look at the C 4 option, I think I might have one in my stash. Thanks.
 
The diagrams above show that the 2 speed is all aluminum case. The c4 needs an adaptor plate also. The best fit behind a y is the FMX which gives you a true 3 speed and will fit onto a cast iron FOM bellhousing. It will even utilize your existing flexplate, presuming you have the late model style plate. If you go the c4 route it is almost better to go one better and fit the AOD.
Don't take offense when people ask you if you are sure you have a two speed. Most people refer to FOM as a 2 speed although it is a 3 speed - it just normally takes off in 2nd.
Regards
 
I don't know how to say it any plainer than I have already. This is an all original '59 Custom 300 with less than 30,00 miles with a 2 speed aluminum case automatic transmission. It only has 2 gears forward, no matter what position the shift lever is in. I am very familiar with the 3 speed Fordomatic that starts out in 2nd gear unless shifted down. It is refered to in the owners manual and the Motor Repair manual. I woild like to install the afore mentioned 3 speed Fordomatic if I had a good one. Thanks for all the suggestions. The AOD would be nice if it isn't too hard to adapt.
 
OK. Lots of people have done the AOD swap. Check this link for the kit. It's pretty much a no brainer with instructions online to see how easy it is.
http://www.transmissionadapters.com/ford_y_block.htm
Not done it myself but a friend fitted one behind a 312 in a 56 Ranchwagon. A great swap, used the original column as well. You just need to be careful setting up the throttle valve cable.
Regards
 
If you go down the AOD route do you want to sell the flexplate you currently have fitted.
Regards
 
At the risk of being wrong:
I have not heard of a 2 speed FOM in a late model full size Ford. If you put the car on low and take off at 30 MPH shift into drive you should get 2 more shifts.
Now I know you own the car and you only have 2 shifts, I just have not heard of a 2 speed in that late of a model.
Not wanting to start an argument, just dialog. Gerry
 
Gerry said:
At the risk of being wrong:
I have not heard of a 2 speed FOM in a late model full size Ford. If you put the car on low and take off at 30 MPH shift into drive you should get 2 more shifts.
Now I know you own the car and you only have 2 shifts, I just have not heard of a 2 speed in that late of a model.
Not wanting to start an argument, just dialog. Gerry
Click to expand...

No argument, just facts, they did put 2 speed's in full size Fords in '59. I've owned this car for over 30 years and am very familiar with 3 speed Fordomatics. This is a 2 speed. It performs very well, overall.
 
Have you thought of useing your FOM and picking up a FMX, there are instructions on making a full 3 speed from the two, and it will bolt right back in. Made it seem simple but you get the picture. I have my 54 with the conversion. Works great.
 
If you have owned and driven the car for 30+ years the trans must have been satisfactory. Why now have you decided that it need to be changed, seems like a lot of work and trouble just to feel it shift one extra time.
 
desotoguy said:
If you have owned and driven the car for 30+ years the trans must have been satisfactory. Why now have you decided that it need to be changed, seems like a lot of work and trouble just to feel it shift one extra time.
Click to expand...

Yes, I'm kinda thinking this way!!
 
If you can find a Y-block Cruise O Matic (aka Green Dot) ****** from '58-60, the swap will be a slam dunk. In '61 the COM got a vacuum modulator so I'm not sure if your kick down linkage would be compatible. I'm running the COM in my '55 with a 3.00:1 9" rear and it's the best of both worlds. Good off the line and 2500 RPM at 75 MPH. Waaaaay better than my old 3 speed Fordo and 3:55's.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top