Looking for some guidance. Picked up a 55 Crown Victoria to work on with my 20-year old son. The vehicle originally had a 272 (based on the plate), but now has a 292 with the newer distributor and a 2-bbl ('57 Autolite carburetor). The young'un and I got the motor running recently (car hadn't run since the early 1970s) and while we are currently focusing on the cooling system, we will soon be checking out the tranny. Plan on putting the rear on jack stands and seeing if she engages. Before we do that though, wondering if it is best to drain and replace the fluid first. Looked for a filter kit, but told none are available. Does this sound right? Also, what transmission fluid would folks recommend we use. Any other thoughts before we tackle the tranny? Things we should be on the look out for? Pitfalls to avoid, aside from working taking this on as a father-son project ? (We will either grow closer or grow farther apart, though hoping for the former).

In a Fordomatic, I think the filter is also called a screen (someone correct me if I am wrong)  which is available.  I know it is available from the TBird vendors, I assume from also available from the other suppliers of old Ford parts.

Original fluid was Type A which is hard to get or non-existant.  Dexron/Mercon is the usual replacement.  Some have used Type F which is a later type than Type A.




54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

try the transmission first.no sense changing fluid on something that may be shot.

Rock Auto sells the filter Kit for much better Price than the Ford Suppliers charge. Filter and Gasket.

  

I run type F. Check fluid and see if it smeals  buint, if not trans should be OK , top off and run as you planned. 

If You decide to change the Fluid don't forget to drain Torque converter. There are 2 drain plugs 180 degrees apart. Turn the converter and drain both Plugs.

  

This subject of Type F fluid for use in mid 50's-60's Fords comes up repeatedly! .. The thought being it's type "F" so it must be for Ford transmissions. I have an older bottle of it here. The label is damaged some but there is no indication that it's recomended for "our" automatics.  It was used in some Ford trucks at one time & is used in some Mazda's, Volvos & Toyotas.. I'm aware of some people using it and saying it works o.k., but I believe there is a difference noted in shift performance. Beyond that.. ?.  What I do know is, that the glove box door on my 57 Ford car says, use Type "A" and the current replacement is Dextron/ Mercon fluid.. 


Paul

Paul, I believe that is correct.  At present, it is Mercon "V" which would be the replacementy for type A.   For years I have always used type F with no problems therefore never questioned it.  Not too long ago someone posted a very good link explaining the development and history of Dexron and Mercon transmission fluids which made for excellent reading.   I highly reccomend finding the thread with that link.  Hope this helps, JEFF..............

64F100 57FAIRLANE500

Here You Go - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MERCON

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