Wondering if someone could tell me about this transmission. From what I’ve been told, it is a 4-speed truck transmission and more than likely the first gear is a granny gear. Not long ago, I bought a ’36 Ford truck with this transmission and a ’50 Mercury flathead in the bed. The flathead is about ready to send off to the machine shop but I wondered what to do about the transmission. I’m not going to go crazy on the flathead rebuild and I’m not planning on taking any long road trips or spending time on the highway so would the 4-speed be okay? Thanks!
This was also in the bed of the truck still attached to the cross member from whatever the donor was. I'm not sure what it came out of but it looks like the case is cracked so it may not be an option.
You'll probably never use first gear, so would just be carrying along some extra weight. But, whether it's a 4speed or a 3 speed, once in high gear, they would both be the same. And thinking about it, that 4spd may not be syncromesh either. Double clutching get's old after awhile
The first trans pictured is a granny 4 speed with the bellhousing being part of the assembly. It has extremely low geared first and reverse. The second is the same except it has a removeable mini bell. That mini bell can easily be adapted to car transmissions.
Thanks @Budget36 - I think you're right, the nostalgia of double clutching would probably wear out pretty quick. @Old wolf - Thanks for pointing out the mini bell! I've looked at this a bunch of times and never noticed. I assume a transmission from a car would have a better gear set. Are there specific ones I should be looking for?
If you want full syncro you need to get a ford warner from the 60,s. the trans pictured is a 59 overdrive.
Those old 4 speed "stump pullers" are not worth fooling with. If, possible, find a nice 3 speed tranny. Much more enjoyable driving experience.
Somehow we ended up with two of those from flatheads we drug home. Used the engines but not the transmissions. We added a T5 to the mix. Good choice and works like a dream....................
Thanks for the input, @19Fordy @F-ONE and @RuFFDaWG Seems like the feedback is fairly universal - start looking for a different transmission! This is the second time I've heard somebody mention the T5. Between that and the 3.03, which would be an easier swap? I would already have the mini bell for the 3.03 but would the T5 cost less up front? I assume I'm already in for changing out the driveshaft either way.
3.03 is easier especially if you use a short tail truck transmission. The early short tail 63-64 3.03 had the heavy spline and may/ should fit a F1 yoke. But the 63-4 had no tail mount. The size of the truck 3.03 is about the same as the original top shift 3 speed.
The mini bell is often referred to a "Hogs Head". The hogs head usually sell for 75-125 if you wish to sell it. The adapter plate runs about 2 bills or if you have access to a mill and a drill press you can easily make your own. I made my own adapter using the hogs head and an aluminum plate.
Thanks @F-ONE and @jrblack30. I heard the term 'hogs head' for the first time at a show this weekend and was going to look it up but you saved me a few clicks.
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