Auto Trans
 

Has anybody attempted to install a newer 4 cylinder engine with an automatic trans in a 1931 model A using the original torque tube rear end?

Re: Auto Trans
 

Not me, but if you do a search for "automatic" under advanced search and in the Model A section, you will see that it has at least been discussed.

Re: Auto Trans
 

I havent done that , but i did put a 904 mopar automatic trans behind my original 4 cyl engine.

Re: Auto Trans
 

I think the torque tube rear end is what is slowing down the responses. I think in most cases going to an automatic is accompanied with an open drive rear end. A '39 transmission with a newer 4 cylinder engine is what you will find most often. The Chevy II 4 cylinder is a good choice to go with a '39 trans. You should also try posting on HAMB, https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/

Charlie Stephens

Re: Auto Trans
 

Hey wright,
Torque tube or not ?
The 904 has been the 'choice' of old timers for a long time.
What were your biggest challenges ?
I am interested and ask, because as age / knee injuries and what accompanies that mess, make a stick ever more problem, might just have to go your route.

Re: Auto Trans
 

A friend of mine has an auto trans in his 30 roadster pickup.

Re: Auto Trans
 

If you put an AT in a Model A, it's not a Model A anymore, it becomes a morphodite.

Re: Auto Trans
 

Well, ok, if you want to go 'there', does that 'becomes' ....start when you use a AA bell housing to install whatever, or does it begin when you use a non-ford original part...or does it happen when your mind/body says to start making 'things' on YOUR car...to suit you ? (curious mind face here)


BTW...I know guys who have some of the most outstanding batch of model As. Some stock/perfect, some fastest I've seen and ALL with hand controls.
I guess that there are some who would say..why ?

Re: Auto Trans
 

If you are interested in a Pinto Engine with conversion to a Model A and Model A transmission send me a message. I have a complete running setup. Radiator, Flywheel and adapter, front engine mount, etc.

Re: Auto Trans
 

Here is a link to a previous thread where I posted some pictures

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showt...3351&showall=1

Re: Auto Trans
 

Does it include a continuous loop tape and speakers under the car to make it at least sound like a real A?

Re: Auto Trans
 

No torque tube. The drive line is open. I am using the stock rear end with an open drive conversion from Hot Rod Works.

Biggest concerns

1. You have to deal with the open drive line as far as securing the rear end from twisting force on take off and breaking. I used ladder bars. You can not see them if the fenders are still on.

2. You have to do something with the wishbone. The ball mount is gone. I built a cross member that both served as the wishbone ball mount as well as the rear engine /front trans mount.

3 you have to use a cable with the 904 trans to operate the shift points. This is hooked to your throttle. I use a downdraft carb system and figured out a good way to tie it all together. Lokar makes an aftermarket cable and I found a plate that goes under the carb that you can use for kick down cables I modified it a bit. It works fine.

4. My car has hydraulic brakes , but if yours does not this could be an issue?

I am very happy with the way it all works together. I do have a hopped up rebuilt engine with a Riley 2 port head a downdraft 97 carb and exhaust headers. I don't know if a stock engine would be the same or not?

Re: Auto Trans
 

THANKS much !
I'm not a computer guy and can not retrieve anything. THIS is the thread that I'd hoped to see/read again.
Good thread, with one disturbing aspect. That is that 'Just Plain Bill' is no longer building/racing , at least on earth !
RIP..Bill..always a good and helpful friend with great expertise/knowledge to share !!

Re: Auto Trans
 

Thanks again !
Excellent information to start with and ponder.
I have Lincoln hydraulics and a warmed up B engine. I like your choice of engine build.

Re: Auto Trans
 

All you need to do is to install a Model A muffler on the Pinto engine. Given the choice I would prefer a Chevy II 4 cylinder engine but that is a topic for HAMB.

Charlie Stephens

Re: Auto Trans
 

If you are interested in it I'll make a tape for you! smile !
And I will throw in the hydraulic brakes.

Re: Auto Trans
 

There is a company that makes adapters to install just about all the Auto Trans to a Model A. At this moment I can't remember the name of it or contact info but I will try and find the link and let you know. You can use the GM 200R4, 700 4R, 350 turbo, 400 turbo, Ford C-4 and C-6, and I think even a Mo Parr Trans.