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Old 05-09-2015, 10:54 AM   #1
1935coupe
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Default New mitchell overdrive

The new overdrive came in thought I would share some photos
just opened the box not installed yet
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Old 05-09-2015, 11:11 AM   #2
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

Save the boxes. In case you want to return it. (just kidding!!!!)
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Old 05-09-2015, 04:37 PM   #3
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

If you can manage it, an installation journal would be of interest. After being pumped full of sunshine for decades by marketers, I just want the unvarnished truth. (that's what I like about talking to little kids, no bs.) Certainly a lot of people here would like to know how it really installs and works. If you can't, maybe just a critique of how it performs please?
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Old 05-09-2015, 04:45 PM   #4
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Originally Posted by SofaKing View Post
If you can manage it, an installation journal would be of interest. After being pumped full of sunshine for decades by marketers, I just want the unvarnished truth. (that's what I like about talking to little kids, no bs.) Certainly a lot of people here would like to know how it really installs and works. If you can't, maybe just a critique of how it performs please?
I second the idea of a installation and usage thread. I bet Rose is gleeful with anticipation!
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Old 05-09-2015, 06:17 PM   #5
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I agree with the other guys, gives details of install even though its a lot of work for you but it will be appreciated. These old cars need just one more gear.
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Old 05-09-2015, 08:09 PM   #6
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Well, I installed a Mitchell 2 years ago in our 46. 4 pages of step by step instructions are provided. Very easy to make the change. 2 guys with frequent coffee breaks in the morning and beer breaks in the afternoon can do it in about a total of 8 hours work time. The last day I spent putting the floorboard and heater (a pain) back in. If we did again we would still take all day but would have more time for coffee/beer breaks. Great improvement for these old Ford's. Not a stitch of trouble in almost 4000 miles. With a 3.78 rearend you can hop on the interstate and run 65 @ 2300 rpm. I am staying in O/D even in town now because I just rebuilt the engine and putting some strain on the rings for break-in.
Second best feeling you will ever experience. If someone is serious, maybe I could copy the 4 pages of instructions and PM them to you.



Last edited by oldford2; 05-09-2015 at 08:19 PM.
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Old 05-10-2015, 07:34 PM   #7
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I want I want!
how big would you say the packing boxes are, is it just two?
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Old 05-10-2015, 09:43 PM   #8
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Originally Posted by oldford2 View Post
Well, I installed a Mitchell 2 years ago in our 46. 4 pages of step by step instructions are provided. Very easy to make the change. 2 guys with frequent coffee breaks in the morning and beer breaks in the afternoon can do it in about a total of 8 hours work time. The last day I spent putting the floorboard and heater (a pain) back in. If we did again we would still take all day but would have more time for coffee/beer breaks. Great improvement for these old Ford's. Not a stitch of trouble in almost 4000 miles. With a 3.78 rearend you can hop on the interstate and run 65 @ 2300 rpm. I am staying in O/D even in town now because I just rebuilt the engine and putting some strain on the rings for break-in.
Second best feeling you will ever experience. If someone is serious, maybe I could copy the 4 pages of instructions and PM them to you.


I always thought the second best feeling was getting out of the Army? All kidding aside, great photos of your install. Just wish I could justify the $$ for one in my '39 p/u.
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Old 05-10-2015, 10:43 PM   #9
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

oldford2
Using the plywood rims on the wood tracks to pull that rear end out is a clever idea. Good one!!!!
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Old 05-11-2015, 05:01 AM   #10
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

Very easy to install and works great.Had mine in for 5yrs or so.Best thing I done
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Old 05-11-2015, 05:31 AM   #11
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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oldford2
Using the plywood rims on the wood tracks to pull that rear end out is a clever idea. Good one!!!!
The plywood wheels tip was not my idea, just one of the many, many tips I got from the Fordbarn folks. John
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Old 05-11-2015, 06:09 AM   #12
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

John } If you could repost I am sure a lot here would have a better under standing about the install.

THANKS
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Old 05-11-2015, 07:42 AM   #13
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

In my mind, the Mitchell is the best alternative available for an overdrive conversion in these old cars....

● The Columbia is nice, but difficult to find a good one that's complete, and too expensive if you do find one.....

● The T5, or other overdrive transmissions available, requires too many modifications on an original vehicle...

I have always hoped that someone would develop a true drop in conversion where you remove your existing 3 speed and drop in a OD transmission in its place and everything bolts back up, requiring no modifications on an original vehicle.
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Old 05-11-2015, 08:42 AM   #14
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I love the Mitchell in the 36 pickup but still worried that floor modification might be needed in a coupe,sedan or roadster to clear the aluminum gear box. Can someone tell me they have done this successfully?
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Old 05-11-2015, 08:53 AM   #15
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

"I have always hoped that someone would develop a true drop in conversion where you remove your existing 3 speed and drop in a OD transmission in its place and everything bolts back up, requiring no modifications on an original vehicle."

Now that would be one high dollar transmission!!
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Old 05-11-2015, 09:13 AM   #16
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Originally Posted by JM 35 Sedan View Post
In my mind, the Mitchell is the best alternative available for an overdrive conversion in these old cars....

● The Columbia is nice, but difficult to find a good one that's complete, and too expensive if you do find one.....

● The T5, or other overdrive transmissions available, requires too many modifications on an original vehicle...

I have always hoped that someone would develop a true drop in conversion where you remove your existing 3 speed and drop in a OD transmission in its place and everything bolts back up, requiring no modifications on an original vehicle.


John, doubt that will happen but would be interesting to have MacVP chime in on the feasibility (forgetting the tooling costs for the moment) of developing such a transmission. John
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Old 05-11-2015, 11:16 AM   #17
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I can't believe a transmission comes in a rectangular case like that. Looks like a stereo amplifier!
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Old 05-11-2015, 05:18 PM   #18
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

John ,that may not be too far fetched.
Mitchel make a sincere trans for the modelA that fits inside the old case,only 3 speed though.
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Old 05-11-2015, 05:38 PM   #19
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I think you right on ,on the floor mod on 35,36 let us know please.If you have 410 rear what will it do for you?I would love to put 354 in my 35 tudor someday,but there hard to fine in good shape.
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Old 05-11-2015, 06:24 PM   #20
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Originally Posted by Talkwrench View Post
I want I want!
how big would you say the packing boxes are, is it just two?
yes only 2 boxes
one 10 X 30 one 6 X 53
the trans it self is only 10X10X6
weight one good grunt when you first pick it up, she's no light weight
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Old 05-11-2015, 09:01 PM   #21
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

My friend with a '34 Tudor had to make a cut in the floor less than +/- 2 inches forward to accommodate the length of the gear box and it's width.
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Old 05-11-2015, 10:23 PM   #22
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

Phew .. guess it would be the weight that will be the real killer for transport to Australia..
I was hoping next trip to Cali I could just tuck it under my arm and walk on the plane with it
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Old 05-12-2015, 04:57 AM   #23
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I didn't have to cut any on my floor on my 40 but did reverse the cable hook up upside down because when someone was in back seat it would hit but I have Posie reverse eye spring on both ends.That just means I have to push in for OD not pull out cable.
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Old 05-12-2015, 10:17 AM   #24
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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oldford2
Using the plywood rims on the wood tracks to pull that rear end out is a clever idea. Good one!!!!
Good idea,but I bet they ride and Handle like crap!
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Old 05-12-2015, 11:10 AM   #25
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Good idea,but I bet they ride and Handle like crap!
You are right on that Phil. Plus they don't wear like bias tires. I have to replace them every 50 miles or so
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Old 05-12-2015, 12:12 PM   #26
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

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Quote:
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You are right on that Phil. Plus they don't wear like bias tires. I have to replace them every 50 miles or so
John, I am thinking if you stretch large thick rubber bands over the outer diameter you will get a better ride and a few extra miles out of them.
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Old 05-13-2015, 11:38 AM   #27
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

I have one in my 33 3-w coupe. One problem on 33 very close to floor in rear.
when I first had the overdrive . I did not like the shift (manual) I made up a electric
( using good size electric door openers) works OK but if I were to do again I would use electric motors to shift.
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Old 05-14-2015, 04:57 AM   #28
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Default Re: New mitchell overdrive

Has to be a strong motor to pull lever back and forth.Any pics
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