39 Trans rebuild

[Shoovel]

Folks,
I’m rebuilding the 3 speed top loader in my 39 Ford.
Does anyone have the manufactures name and number for the front input shaft and rear output shaft bearings.
Thanks

 

[19Fordy]

Is this a possibility? Seems very (too) inexpensive. Google 1939 Ford input shaft bearing.
https://www.ecklers.com/ford-pickup-truck-input-shaft-bearing-3-speed-transmission-48-26066-1.html

Also, contact Mr. Van Pelt on Fordbarn. He rebuilds those transmissions and may have the parts you need as made in America in the good old days.

 

[Hal Beatty]

Front SKF 6208, Rear SKF 6306.

Use the snap rings from the old bearings as modern ones are too thin and will allow the shafts and bearings to move in the housing.

I got sealed bearings and removed the seals from the side of the bearings facing in... left the outer seals in place.

 

[Hal Beatty]

Is this a possibility? Seems very (too) inexpensive. Google 1939 Ford input shaft bearing.
https://www.ecklers.com/ford-pickup-truck-input-shaft-bearing-3-speed-transmission-48-26066-1.html

Yes, you'll pay a lot more than that for good bearings. I ordered a set from Carpenter; one was made in India, the other China. They're both still on the shelf...

 

[Shoovel]

Front SKF 6208, Rear SKF 6306.

Use the snap rings from the old bearings as modern ones are too thin and will allow the shafts and bearings to move in the housing.

I got sealed bearings and removed the seals from the side of the bearings facing in... left the outer seals in place.

Oh man,
I was goin nuts yesterday cause it would lock up the trans with the new bearing and the thin snap ring. Problem is, the old snap rings are really butchered, from previous hands in the trans.

 

[Andy]

I have some used 39 trans parts. OEM Ford bearings, input shaft(15 tooth) retainer, synchronizers, cluster bearings. Much more. All at scrap prices. Good parts.

 

[Shoovel]

Hey guys,
Thanks for the good info. Installed the old (thick) snap rings on the bearings and it all fits.
You saved my sanity, what little I have left.

 

[TerryOH]

New snap rings of the proper thickness are available from several suppliers such as Mac VanPelt and Third Gen Auto.

 

[Pete]

Van Pelt has a website and lists many parts for early transmissions.
I would put GOOD used parts in a transmission before I would use chink junk.

http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/trans-partsprices-pg1.htm

 

[Ken hash]

I just finished a transmission for a 40. There is a number on the edge of the bearings you take out. There will be more than one bearing manufacture that will crossover. Any auto parts store or tractor supply can quote you a price. Tim kin is a very good brand. Good luck.

 

[solidaxle]

Save yourself some grief and but VanPelt's book. He has the correct parts and is more then helpful on the phone.

 

[rotorwrench]

VanPelt Sales carries a snap ring set that is correct and can be easily replaced unlike the original rings. He has the best inventory for these old cog boxes and a damn good overhaul book.

 

[Shoovel]

Thanks guys,
I have the book, very helpful.
Trans back in the car. Diff and driveshaft buttoned up. Fired it up before I put the interior back together for a test and shifts good. Whoever was in it previously, was let’s say, a monkey mechanic. A little challenging for one guy tho. Hope to have it back on the road this weekend.