MEL compatible manual transmission?

[Revhead]

Looks like I am getting a merc 383. What bell housings, flywheels etc. will work on these. I heard in one place that a FE toploader will bolt up. Anyone tried this combo?

[prime mover]

same bolt up as a FE, check here-
http://www.network54.com/Forum/257364

[OldCarPilot]

Going in the shoebox?

[Revhead]

That would be a cool combo, but i think I'm gonna save it for a model A project. Y-block is an easier fit in the shoebox, I might do that though.

[Elrod]

Does that mean you are leaving the HAMB for this place (http://www.network54.com/Forum/257364)?

Good score man!

[Bigcheese327]

I believe the MEL and Y-block share a bellhousing bolt pattern. I somehow doubt the MEL crankshaft is drilled for a pilot bearing but there was a HAMBster with a 430 and an overdrive three-speed in his '57 Ranchero, so it can be done. Good luck! Cool motors. Huuuge.

[Revhead]

good point bigcheese. I was reading that MEL forum and there was a guy putting a 430 in a '58 with a manual trans. They never mentioned whether it had a bushing hole or not. I'll see soon enough. Now I've seen both the y-block and FE listed as being compatible..what gives?

[Evilfordcoupe™]

My 430's crank is drilled for a pilot bearing....its going to have a Ford T10 behind it.

-Jason

[OldCarPilot]

Rev,

If you do get a y-block and are going to rebuild it let me know! I want to be there.