Transmission just started making a grinding noise in first gear only and only while unloaded/decelerating. Reverse, second and third all ok. Probably a bearing out but seems to be ok to drive around until I can pull the transmission. I know it is easier to pull the motor and trans together but wondered if anyone has experience pulling just the transmission, leaving the motor in the car. Also, wondered if I could add overdrive while the transmission is out either by adding the period correct overdrive or swapping to a later four speed transmission. Thanks for any advice.

The complete OD trans will bolt in w/no problems, it's the same overall length as the non-OD trans. Adding OD to a non-OD trans is a whole different ball 'o wax. You'd need to get all the OD parts and do some machine work to the case. Far easier to find a complete OD trans or convert to a T-5. A 4 speed will be a waste of money and time since the final ratio is still 1:1 just like your straight 3 speed. JHMO, others may differ.

I agree with Dobie. You can fit one of the old Ford 4 speed overdrives, called a T&C around here, but they have terribly wide ratios. IIRC a 3.27 1st and a .8 o/d. You can get away with that in a 5 speed, but it's really not so good with 4. I had one for a couple years and replaced it with a T-5.

The T-85 o/d is your best choice, followed by the T-5. You could get by with the. T-86 with the R-10 o/d, but the 312 will break those if you hammer them. If I recall right this is mama's car, and you've got another one you can hammer, so that might be an option.



miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

I'll probably just rebuild the trans as it is. Cost justification would be difficult as we only drive the car on weekends and to shows.

I recently had the T-85 with overdrive in my 57 bird rebuilt.  I'm too damn old to mess with pulling transmissions so  took it to a trans shop.  They removed the trans without pulling the engine.  Without having it on a lift with the proper trans jack would, I think, present some problems, but sure, it can be done.

I have pulled the 3 speed with and without OD transmissions without pulling the motor on my 55 Bird. I have been thinking about the Gear Venders OD but I think the tunnel will have to be modified.

  Vic Correnti

Yeah, and the sucker weighs 140 +. Not something I'd want to tackle w/o proper equipment.

55 and 56 cross members unbolt, the 57 doesn't, that makes things more difficult.

I didn't know the 57 cross member didn't come out. That would make it more difficult for sure. I have had to remove the clutch and bell housing to get the 4 speed top loader in and out without removing the engine.

  Vic Correnti