MTFCA Forum

Hey guys What would you recommend for the conversion of a floor 3 speed transmission to put behind a 27 T engine.

Thanks Mike

Talk to Mark F at Model T Haven, and bring a fat checkbook. I know he had a Himico transmission/engine made back in the day for a model T. I don't know if he still has it?
Chevrolet transmissions can be adapted to fit in behind the model T's planetary more easily than most others because the U-joint and four-bolt bell coupler is fairly compatible with the model T's. I have heard (but not seen) of Chevy transmissions from the late '30s being used because they have syncromesh on second and high gears.
I have never considered that a very good arrangement because you still have to use the model T's clutch which I love in a model T, however it is problematic for pure clutch usage (removing the bands would help with the use of the clutch?). Personally, I like using a model T planetary with a Warford or Muncie behind!
A full clutch, flywheel, and transmission conversion properly done would cost a BUNCH! (Don't forget oiling!)

Easiest and the most sanitary and still look original would be a Ruckstell. Easy to shift and you effectively have 4 speeds forward and 2 reverse. Add a foot throttle and you can shift all 4 with ease. But with any auxiliary, you will need good brakes on the rear axle.

Mike
In my case I got really lucky and found a original era bolt in transmission conversion that replaced the original transmission and hogshead with a 3 speed sliding version built in Canada

In my opinion, there is not an easier to fit, more satisfactory result and wonderfully easily operated transmission them a Layne Warford style auxilliary gearbox. These give excellent results, and you can still drive the T exactly as is standard if that is what you like to do.

Allan from down under.

Why????

The simplest, cheapest and most trouble free conversion would be to swap your Model T for a '27 Cheby.

None in my OP are EASY to install, but something like a Jumbo that has 3 speeds and reverse. You however would still be working with a wet disk clutch even if you removed the low and reverse bands. Ford may have kept the disk clutch in the early A's, but it was dry disk.

Rich, whoever heard of a trouble free 27 Chebby?
The wet clutch is not a problem to Layne style Warford. You just haul on the lever and it will change without using the clutch. A foot throttle helps to match the engine revs, but is not essential.
Why? When I built my extended chassis 1917 shooting brake which can carry 8 adults, it features a rather heavy solid timber body. The Layne gearbox allows me to get off the mark easily, with no lugging in top gear. It drives just like a 3 speed. When it is rolling under favourable conditions, it can certainly take advantage of the overdrive gear.

Allan from down under.

Allan, I didn't mean the Cheby would be trouble-free. Just the "conversion" !

If you knew the trouble that would cause you, you might want to consider leaving it alone. Been there, done that.

Now IF he was looking for a 4 speed or a automatic then I could offer some true insight into some solutions. A Volvo 4 speed can be bolted in the same space that a Warford takes. 4 speed all synchro!! Or 4 or 5 speed from a Mustang 2. Drive line gets a bit more complicated

WOW Thanks everyone. I will just leave it alone.

Mike

Complicated Les says...., Les, THERAPY!!

Hank

Absolutely right Hank!!

FUN, FUN, FUN, Les! You started this with me.., Dr Les, Therapist!



Hank

Hank,

You had some Chevrolet transmissions for sale that were modified to fit the T driveline. Maybe he could use one.

Ted,

You have to do modifications to the torque tube, install accessory brakes, etc. Works excellent but comes with $$$$ spent and time. Just saying. Thank You though.

Hank

Good decision to leave it alone, Mike. Stick to your decision. You'll be happier in the long run.

Nice looking adapter Hank!!

Maybe this