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Old 10-09-2014, 01:51 AM   #21
apbright
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

I have a slightly stronger opinion. Here in the Bay Area, Freeway driving and hill climbing are part of daily life, if you're going anywhere other than to the corner store. Before I had the Mitchell OD (standard 26%), that meant much engine lugging or uncomfortable/disconcerting over-revving. Adding the Mitchell OD transformed my Model A from a curiosity to downright usable transportation. (Though I do try to remember someone's quote that, in a Model A, 'Drive no faster than your angels can fly')
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Old 10-17-2014, 12:50 PM   #22
mrphil
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

I installed one in my 29 Tudor. I love it, but if I do it again, I would choose the 20% reduction rather than the 30% reduction.
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Old 10-17-2014, 01:20 PM   #23
Tom Wesenberg
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

Quote:
Originally Posted by mrphil View Post
I installed one in my 29 Tudor. I love it, but if I do it again, I would choose the 20% reduction rather than the 30% reduction.
Do you have the 5.5 head? That helps a lot. Also you need a good cam.
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Old 10-17-2014, 05:53 PM   #24
Synchro909
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

Tom is right about a high compression head. I have a Mitchell in 3 cars. One with a stock engine - OK but not getting the full benefit of the O/D. The next has 5.5 head and downdraft carby - much better. The third has 5.5 head, downdraft carby and a touring cam - really excellent.
A note here for anybody new to these O/D's. When starting cold (say, first thing in the morning) do at least 2 miles before you try to engage the O/D. The oil needs time to warm a little or the synchro will lock you out of gear. (I use the oil recommended by Mitchell) A minor thing but worth remembering if you are to get the max enjoyment out of it.
I wouldn't be without one now that I have experienced them.
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Old 10-23-2014, 07:54 PM   #25
Y-Blockhead
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

Does Mitchell have a website. Can't seem to find one...
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Old 10-23-2014, 08:34 PM   #26
tbirdtbird
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

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no they do not
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Old 10-23-2014, 08:47 PM   #27
Mike Peters
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

How about rear end ratios with a Mitchell? Should we go with the standard 3.78:1 or should we drop back to a 4.11:1?
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Old 10-23-2014, 08:58 PM   #28
Tom Endy
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

The Mitchell overdrive is 26%, pretty well suited for a 378:1 ring & pinion ratio. The Borg Warner overdrives were 33% and it was too high for a 378. This is where the 411:1 ring & pinion was better suited.

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Old 10-23-2014, 09:51 PM   #29
Mike Peters
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Default Re: mitchell over drive

Thanks Tom. I've got an old Borg Warner in our 28 Tudor and I wish I had went with a 4:11 rear end. I once installed a 3.25:1 ring and pinion in a 35 Ford. Big mistake. Pulled too hard. Then I found a set of 3.78 gears for the 35, installed them and have been happy ever since. The car came originally with 4.11's and it was too slow. I may eventually buy a Mitchell for the 28. The Borg set up is not very user friendly, although it's worlds better then nothing at all.
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