Ryan Overdrive

[supereal]

I have run a Ryan OD in my '47 convertible since they first appeared. It has been trouble free. I use a cable to shift it instead of the supplied lever. When in OD, it is noisy, sounding like an old Ford truck, but the wind noise in an open car hides it. The rear end is a 3-78, and the OD is 33%. I use it only on the highway, as it is a bit tall below 35-40 mph. I understand it is no longer made. Too bad, as it is a rugged unit.

 

[40cpe]

I can't comment on the Ryan overdrive, but it's good to see you here on the Barn, Supereal. I hope you can pick up some tips here, because I know you have lots of knowledge to share.

 

[oldford2]

Bob,
I agree, nice to see you over here on the Barn. Don't be a stranger. With your 40(?) years experience with flatheads you can be a help.
I have a 26% Mitchell and didn't notice any different noise from the rear end when I installed it 2 years ago. Nice to pass those chevys on the interstates. 2200 rpms @ 65mph. Cable shift. The lever shift won't work in 46 to 48 sedans. I love it.
John

 

[4dFord/SC]

How are those Weyerhauser tires working out for you?

 

[ford38v8]

Bob, Good to see you here. You can teach some of these whippersnappers some stuff!

 

[supereal]

Thanks for the warm welcome, my friends. Having made more than my share of mistakes over the past more than six decades, and am to old to "get put and get under", I look forward to this new (to me) venue. Bob S. MAS Auto and Machine, Iowa City, IA.

 

[42merc]

If about 3 more responders come over from the V8 Club forum, there will be no reason to visit anymore.

 

[Bill Wright]

I think the tires look more like Boise Cascades?

 

[larrys40]

I have a Ryan in my '30 Tudor I put in in the 80's. It has served my well. The noise you here is from the straight cut gears as opposed to the helical synchromesh of the mitchell. If you don't want it please let me know.
I have installed a number of mitchells in other guys A's and they have all done well. I quieter unit as I have stated above... At the time I purchased mine the mitchell was just coming out...
Larry S

 

[dean333]

Glad you finally came to the Barn Bob. Your help has been invaluable to me in working on my 36 Fordoor. Especially the relay setup for my halogen headlamps. Just not enough going on at the V8 club site unfortunately. I brag about your expertise every chance I get.