Anyone running a 3spd from a V-8 car?

T

Tugmaster

Member
I have seen adapter plates for mounting a later (30-40's) Ford 3spd to a Model A engine. Anyone here done it before? How do you like it. I know you get synchronized gears but what else?
Thanks,
Todd
 
Several guys in our club have '39 transmissions in their Model A's. They like the synchromesh, and the gear ratios is primarily what I've been told. Don't know if or what kind of adapter they used.
 
I'm running a '38 trans with all helical gears and a '28 tooth cluster gear. The 28 tooth cluster gives you a little more speed in low and second than the 29 tooth cluster. It all works fine but remember its an antique trans design and the synchros don't work like a modern trans. You wont be throwing any drag racing shifts. The later trans 39-48 have better synchros but are pricier.
All of them will be pretty pricy if you have to rebuild the trans and then buy all the adapters.
 
Cling's has the adapter. https://www.clingsaftermarket.com/addtocart.asp?prod=43
Fairly easy job to do.
There are different gear sets and interchangable parts combinations. The later synchros will fit the earlier gearsets and cases, etc. VanPelt Sales website has lots of good info. http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_transID_3speed.htm
I like the 37-38 gearset which has a little higher ratio than the Model A. My engine is not stock and I use a 3.54 rear end. Very nice for touring. Others will have opinions.
 
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It's a "slick" conversion and as stated later gears and synchros will go in an earlier case. Street Rodder mag has a good article on rebuilding and assembling one in the latest issue.
Paul in CT
 
I, personally, would never do it. With all the expense for adapters, lots of modifications, & lots of labor. Why do it, when the Model A transmission is rugged & dependable. If shifting is a problem, just learn to shift it PROPERLY. They're only original ONCE! Bill W.
 
I agree with Bill up to a point. There is no reason to go to the v8 trans unless it is for a specific purpose. I only did it when I decided to try hill climbing. The different gear ratios were a plus with my set up, but that may not be applicable on a stock or milder engine.
 
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