Keep it simple 4 spd conversion

[Chasbod]

If I want to convert an automatic to 4 spd on the floor, what are direct replacement bolt in 4 speed manuals I should consider? I've read a bit about the top loaders which seem to be the way to go.

Will aftermarket bell housing assemblies be a direct bolt in w/ the clutch linkage?

I assume I might need to have the driveshaft modified as well?

Thanks for the help!

[Redcap]

NP435, T18, Clark OD 5speed (if you can find one)

[Chasbod]

Thanks!. Just to clarify, not looking for a granny gear but later model 4 speed.

[splavin90]

if you're not looking for a granny gear 4 speed manual, why not just go the extra mile and get an late 80's early 90's 5 speed?

[FORDification]

A car-type 4-speed will work just fine....however:

The truck bellhousing is 7/16" deeper than the car bellhousing. This means any FE car manual tranny (Toploader included) will have a problem with it's input nose engaging into the pilot shaft. I have heard of a way around this though. Instead of using an FE tranny, use the small block trannies (Toploader included). They all have a longer input nose and it engages perfectly.

Actually, I think the small block Toploader would be a better match for a truck because it's a wide ratio with a lower 1st compared to the big block Toploader. Plus, the truck bellhousing takes the bigger 11 1/2" clutch compared to the 11" car bell.

(Close ratio) - 2.32 1.69 1.29 1.00
(Wide ratio) - 2.78 1.93 1.35 1.00

Bellhousings that will be used with a Toploader must measure 6 1/4" deep. If it measures 6 3/4" deep it is a truck bellhousing and should not be used.

Another option is to use a Dodge NV4500 transmission. It's a 5-speed manual that's virtually bulletproof and will bolt on with the right adaptor. Read the following thread for more info:

http://fordification.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=13389

[67highboy]

[Jake11]

Got an extra "FE" bell out in the garage if you need one. It's for P/U

[Chasbod]

Very cool guys and thanks. I forgot to mention that this would be for a 302, not FE. So I assume that knocks out the Dodge approach?

I read about the top loaders from the David Kee website. But ya'll make a very good point about the 5 speeds too.

[FoMoCo]

Look for a TOD. It's a small aluminum 4sd OD that came in late 80's f-150's. It was a direct swap from 3.03. It can be found behind 300/302's. No granny gears and good general cruiser.

I'll admit, I mis my 68 w/granny.

Nick

[Freightrain]

You can use either 10.5 or 11" clutch(11" would be better), find the matching bellhousing and bolt it up.

The toploader you need has the LONG snout on it for pilot bearing. This is area needs to be like 5/8" long(not 3/8" for big block application).

Definitely get a WIDE ratio box since it gives you the deeper first gear. All the hub-bub about the "close ratio" gears is crap. You'll never know the difference when shifting, but the lame first gear will eat up a clutch quicker.

I found someone on here to send me the complete linkage for mine when I converted my '67 to stick. Makes it really easy.

Dave Kee is the man for toploader's. I've been dealing with him for quite a few years now on parts. Super nice guy. The hard part anymore is buying the tranny. What I used to pay $100 for is $800+ . It's hard to find bargins anymore.