FMX transmission questions

Dave B.

Dave B.

New member
Hi folks

Haven't posted for a while... and when I do, it's usually because I'm helping my brother-in-law with his projects. ;) He's about 125 miles from me, so I can't just run over to his garage and check these things myself. Also, he's not particularly internet-savvy, so I usually get to dig for answers.

Right now, he's in the process of building a Model A pick-up. He had hoped to power it with a Merc flathead that he'd had for years, but found that the block was cracked.:(

Now, he's picked up an '86 302 "high output" out of a Mustang GT. He also found an FMX transmission (casting number EOAP-7006-CA, tailshaft tag number PHB-BG2E-8 D90PGC) that he'd like to use behind the 302.

Questions:
1. The FMX appears to bolt-up to the 302. Do you guys think that it's a reasonable choice for a 'cruiser'? He's not planning to ever drag race the "A".
2. Would this FMX be a 3-speed or a 4-speed with overdrive? If more info is needed to tell, let me know and I'll call my B-i-L.
3. Are there any books or manuals that you folks would recommend on either the engine or the transmission? He's not planning anything wild, but it's not going to be strictly stock, either... he's shooting for just a nice-sounding cruiser.

As always, thanks in advance for the help!
Dave B.
 
I have worked for Ford lots of years and done all the automatics from FX,MX, al the way up to AOD and it's various styles. I have done more FMX trans that I care to remember and would ONLY use it to hold doors in position or to crack walnuts. It it's day it was okay, but its day has come and gone. Take the time to find a good C4 or buy a core and rebuild it. A C4 is less than half the weight and far less complicated. It is light, reliable and compact with modern internals. It also takes less HP to operate. Put a 5 clutch direct and 4 clutch forward clutch packs, Halve the band adjustment on both low reverse and intermediate (2nd) and you will smile for years. I know many will disagree with me but most never made their living at it for too many years. C4 or if you must have a bigger trans C6. But a C6 is a waste of time unless you build a killer engine. My 2 cents worth.
 
FMX is an iron case.... heavy as heck. I tried one in a '68 Mustang with a 351W and it hit the floor pan, C4 to the rescue and it was easily 1/2 the weight.
 
Thanks for the prompt replies, guys!

I'll pass along all the opinions, but I'm not sure what he's going to do. I don't think that weight is an issue and, since he's fabricating the floorboards, height isn't either. I'll talk to him about the more modern nature of the C4.

Best regards,
Dave B.
 
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