'50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

I'm planning on doing a trans swap soon. I'll be removing the standard 3 speed and installing a 3 speed O/D trans. The green book says to remove the "muffler inlet pipe assembly". My question is can I swing the crossmember enough to get buy the exhaust to avoid removing it? This car has single exhaust so there is only one pipe to deal with. Thanks.

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

From the memory of doing this swap, yes I think you can swing the crossmember. You will reverse the transmissioin mounting pad that sits on the cross member.

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

i like to slide the crossmsmber back far enough to get the trans in and out and i use studs on the two bottom frame bolts. makes it alot easier to line it up when going back together....

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll give it a shot. Let you know how it goes.

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

I did this change in 1961 but have forgot if the original drive line had to be modified. I pulled the good three speed out while doing some clutch work at the Pearl Harbor Submarine Base hobby shop and while I had the tranny out decided to dissassemble and check it out it was in perfect condition. I placed all the parts on a pc. of plywood in the back seat over a day when the shop was closed when I returnedsomeone had stole my good parts and replaced with there old broken ones, so I found a overdrive unit ($35) that worked well I used a spring loaded toggle to momentarily kill engine for down shift passing gear, I even had OD in first and reverse gear. I am considering putting one in my new 50 Ford.

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

Swap is finished. Was able to remove the crossmember with ease with exhaust pipe in place. Swap went smooth for a one man job.

Re: '50 Custom Trans Swap?
 

Good job! Now, make sure those brakes are in good shape for that time you come free-wheeling down a long incline.:D