The Ford Barn

Hot Rod Reverend · 05-16-2022, 01:18 PM

I have been told that when upgrading a 55/56 Ford Sedan from the standard 3 speed manual (T86, et al) that one needs to find a cross member that will mount said T85 into the frame. I know that 55 Mercs had a T85 has an option, as did 56's. Are the cross members the same? Of course, 56 Ford Police cars and some 56 wagons may have had the T85. Knowing that the 55/56 Ford frames are basically the same on measurements and all, it would stand to reason that there are cross members out there that would work.

The T85 was removed from a 1957 Thunderbird and was factory equipment; it's in great shape. The owner wanted a modern driveline, etc, etc. I made sure to have the yoke in the deal, and I did source an NORS Hurst 3 speed synchro loc shifter kit specifically for the T85 with R11 Overdrive.

Has anyone been this route before?

05-16-2022, 01:18 PM	#1
Hot Rod Reverend Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Lancaster, CA Posts: 917	Installing a T85 R11 OD into a 1955 Ford Club Sedan - what do I need? I have been told that when upgrading a 55/56 Ford Sedan from the standard 3 speed manual (T86, et al) that one needs to find a cross member that will mount said T85 into the frame. I know that 55 Mercs had a T85 has an option, as did 56's. Are the cross members the same? Of course, 56 Ford Police cars and some 56 wagons may have had the T85. Knowing that the 55/56 Ford frames are basically the same on measurements and all, it would stand to reason that there are cross members out there that would work. The T85 was removed from a 1957 Thunderbird and was factory equipment; it's in great shape. The owner wanted a modern driveline, etc, etc. I made sure to have the yoke in the deal, and I did source an NORS Hurst 3 speed synchro loc shifter kit specifically for the T85 with R11 Overdrive. Has anyone been this route before? __________________ Lancaster, California Visit hotrodreverend.com to view hundreds of pictures and videos of the build of the 1955 Ford Club Sedan!