T-18 to C-6

[jor]

Well, I've got my T-18 pulled out from under the truck and bell housing off, getting ready to replace the clutch and pressure plate (previous post). I got to thinking... Right next to that T-18 is a nice fresh C-6 along with a torque converter and flex plate. I'm thinking I would only need a shifter and trans cooler to switch this old truck over to an auto. One question though: Can I use my existing cross member? Thanks.
jor

[fordman]

possibly the one on the right are for manual transmissions and other early automatics. the ones on the left is for the c6. and maybe manual transmissions. they are different in where the mount bolt goes through. but they can be redrilled for another hole. plus i think the c6 ones line up differently on the frame than do the one on the right.

[cdherman]

Cross member is the least of your worries. The lines to the cooler are not that simple. You'll need a shifter (floor is easiest).... How about rigging a kickdown from the carb???

But you'll also need a new drive shaft....

AND .... depending on your year, you may need to grind off or torch off the rivets that hold the middle crossmember (between the radius arms). This is because for Ford did not realize in the early years that you cannot get an auto tranny out or into a truck WITH THE CAB ON!! They put the driveline in and then sat the cab on top. To get one in or out after the fact, you need to remove the middle crossmember.

So... You want an automatic tranny... Be prepared to work for it. That being said, I love mine and would never go back to the t-18. I don't do real work with the vehicle anymore and an automatic makes life MUCH easier.

[jor]

Thanks for the photos, fordman. I'm thinking I'd be better off finding the right cross member. As for cd's remarks:
* Cooler Lines: I was thinking I could either get them off of a parts truck or maybe make some up. This would involve my rule of three though in which it takes me three times as much tubing to make a line as the length I'm running.
* Kickdown: I've got one from a 74 and I think it goes right on my Edelbrock 750.
* Drive Shaft: Hmmm... I have one but it's got the wrong spine count where it mates to the trans.
* Middle Cross Member: Uh oh...
That T-18 may end up back in there yet! As for the convenience of the auto, what the heck, I'm giving the rig to my kid anyhow! hahahahaha... Thanks for the input.
jor

[cdherman]

Take a look at the middle cross member -- it may already just have bolts in it. Ford got wise somewhere in the late 60s......

[jor]

Take a look at the middle cross member -- it may already just have bolts in it.

Mine is riveted. I decided to go with the old T-18 and clutch. My son can change it out later if he wants to. Thanks.
jor