Trans . guide dowels

[Ford Freak]

Hey guys - I am installing my '39 trans to my 59AB in '37 coupe after replacing the clutch . I have read on here that it is a lot easier if you screw a threaded rod on each side of the bell housing help to guide the trans in . Now , can anyone tell me how long I should make them ?
Is there a torque setting for the 6 pressure plate bolts ?
Any other tips/advice for this job ? Thanks in advance ! - FF

[CarlG]

I made mine about 6" or so. I just bought the longest bolt that Ace Hardware had and cut the head off, chamfered the edges and cut a screwdriver slot in the non threaded end just to make it easier to remove once everything is all together. Works like a charm!

[29AVEE8]

Originally Posted by CarlG

I made mine about 6" or so. I just bought the longest bolt that Ace Hardware had and cut the head off, chamfered the edges and cut a screwdriver slot in the non threaded end just to make it easier to remove once everything is all together. Works like a charm!

That is exactly how my Dad showed me 50+ years ago. The bolt won't deflect with the weight where all thread might.

[Ford Freak]

Originally Posted by CarlG

I made mine about 6" or so. I just bought the longest bolt that Ace Hardware had and cut the head off, chamfered the edges and cut a screwdriver slot in the non threaded end just to make it easier to remove once everything is all together. Works like a charm!

Hmm....was your engine in , or out of the car ? ( mine is in )
I ask this because 6" just seems like it might be too long .

[CarlG]

Transmission was in the car, engine was not. I'm guessing at the length since I don't have them in my hand right now. I'll measure them when I get home later tonight. Now after looking at a ruler here at my desk, they are probably only 3" long, including the threads.

[Ford Freak]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Ok , thanks Carl . - FF

[slowforty]

Length of the dowels could be an issue because you may have to twist the transmission to the right to clear the starter.cover. This is what I have to do to put the 39 trans in my 40.
Look at the housing on the trans and look for a cutout on the side. This has to line up with the starter housing to clear the trans. I Dont use any dowels when installing my trans.You can get the spline started in the clutch and the twist the trans to clear the housing and then push the trans home. I used to do this by myself ,
but now i use ALL THE HELP i can get.

[Ford Freak]

Originally Posted by slowforty

Length of the dowels could be an issue because you may have to twist the transmission to the right to clear the starter.cover. This is what I have to do to put the 39 trans in my 40.
Look at the housing on the trans and look for a cutout on the side. This has to line up with the starter housing to clear the trans. I Dont use any dowels when installing my trans.You can get the spline started in the clutch and the twist the trans to clear the housing and then push the trans home. I used to do this by myself ,
but now i use ALL THE HELP i can get.

I used to do a lot of things by myself . Now , I too need all the help I can get !!

[CarlG]

I measured the dowels I made, they are just short of 3"

[Ford Freak]

Thanks Carl , and all others who responded ! - FF