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T-Series 1954 TF Question.

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PAUL161

PAUL161

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Can an OD transmission be installed in a 1954 TF without modifying the body? What's the options, if any? PJ
 
Should be possible, but you will need to fabricate rear mounts for the gearbox, and the tunnel will need to be wider. I don't recall what the tunnel is made of on a TF, steel or rubber. I know a guy with an LH-Type OD in his TD but the tunnel is not installed at the moment.
 
Don't know about a LH-style overdrive, but there are a couple conversions out there for a 5-speed. Skyhook uses a Datsun transmission (similar to the one used for Spridget 5-speed swaps), and there's another that uses the Ford T-9 (I believe). Swapping in a taller rear end from an MGA is also popular.
 
I'm trying to get in touch with this guy who has one for sale. The price is right for what he claims is an older restoration. He claims the engine and gear box was completely rebuilt about 2,000 miles ago and a photo of the car shows it in real nice condition with it's original wire wheels. I'm just not in favor of a screaming engine while driving 55 to 60 mph, so I'm just gathering info in case we can make a deal. Thanks for the input. PJ
 
FWIW, I drive my '49 TC all over the west coast, sometimes 2-3K miles at a time, and sometimes with stock TDs and TFs following along. The TC has a stock engine and gearbox with slightly higher rear end gearing. The engine does just fine. If the TF is a 1500 then you will have more power than my car, so perhaps a gearing adjustment would be enough. Installing an MGB gearbox would certainly detract from the value of the car, if that matters to you.

As much as I prefer period-correct parts, a 5-speed would likely be a much easier conversion if you want more than four gears.
 
The gearing certainly wouldn't keep me from buying any T-series MG (among my favorite designs of all time). You do have good options if you later decide you need to modify things.
 
Well, long story short, It was sold before I could get to it. The way it sounds, it was sold before the ad came out. That's the second one so far I lost. Oh well, disappointed, but I'll find one, in the right condition and at the right price. Right now, I only want a TF, but I want it close enough to me where I can go see it. Thanks for the tips guys. Your information is well received. PJ

Oh Steve, I too like period correct cars. That's why I asked if the transmission could be changed without any modifications to the body. I would never chop into a car to do that, regardless of how minor a change would be needed. If a taller rear would work and it was a bolt on operation with no other modifications, I might consider it. It's all info for my disintegrating memory banks. :jester: Thanks. PJ
 
I believe the TF will accept Midget gears, so no mods necessary. I put TA gears into my TC to achieve a slight decrease in RPMs at high speed. I would like to go higher but I don't have the engine to push it. Maybe next engine build... :smile:
 
I know that individual wood parts are available by the piece, but is there an out let for a complete wood kit for a TF? Not that this will be needed, but just in case. From what I've heard, a TF left outside for an extended period of time will eventually get wood rot, any truth in this? If I remember correctly, there was a guy at G-burg in 06 selling all kinds of wood kits. PJ
 
Anyone know the overall width and length of a 1954/55 TF? PJ
 
tdskip said:
Darn, JP beat me to that line...

If it will fit you kinda have to buy one you know...
Click to expand...

That's what I keep telling myself! (Grin) :jester:
 
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