65 Mustang from stick to automatic
65 Mustang from stick to automatic
I know, I have heard all the arguments, but I am going to do it. I have to.
I have a 200? engine with a three speed manual transmission. I am a female
but I do all my own auto work. Until recently I have only worked on
Plymouths. I just purchased a very nice 65 Mustang for $300.00 and I do
not drive a stick, and need to change it over. There are thousands of
articles on changing the opposite way, from an automatic to a stick. I
cannot find any information on what I am going to do. I just purchased a C4
automatic to put in and was hoping someone could point me towards some
valid, helpful information or offer me some solid tips to make my job a bit
easier. Thanks
blackwing715The first thing you need to make sure of is that the bolt pattern where the C4 bolts up to the engine is the same as the bolt pattern on the back of the block. Ford used two different patterns in the early to mid 60's. You will also need to obtain an auto trans flexplate (replaces the flywheel for an automatic), you may need to shorten or lenghten the driveshaft, depending on whether or not the trannys are the same length, you may need a different transmission mount, which supports the rear of the trans at the crossmember, I am guessing that the crossmemeber itself will probably be the same. You will need a shifter, you can probably buy a used, original Mustang shifter, as well as most ofn these other parts, from a Mustang wrecking yard, such as can be found in Hemmings Motor News. Or, you can probablt obtain all of the parts I mention from one of the Mustang specialty parts companies, depending on your cash flow situation. Also, don't forget to hook up a neutral safety switch to prevent the car from being started in gear. You'll also need a cooler for the transmission, which is originally bbuilt into the radiator. You can either get a radiator from an A/T car, or install an auxillary, stand alone cooler.
rooble55The flex plate and torque converter were included with the transmission. I appreciate your help and the fact that you did not try to convince me to keep it as is for "resale" value. I plan on keeping the car. Thanks again
blackwing715Well, then, that's two less pieces you need to locate! Where on earth did you find a nice '65 Mustang for $300?! Another thing that really doesn't matter, but you might want to be aware of, is that an automatic car used a wider brake pedalpad than a manual. I restored a '66 several years ago from top to bottom, and have also had Plymouths myself (I still kick myself for selling my '70 Duster 340-4 speed back in about 1975 or so, but who knew?!) As fara s trying to persude you to keep it "original", what right do I,or anyone else have to tell you what to do with your own property?! At $300, no matter what you have to, or decide to, do to it, you'll always be able to get your money out of it! So, as they say, You Go Girl!
rooble55I can work without it, but I do best if I have pictures and instructions to go by. So far I have found no articles or websites that give me a guide or how I should approach the project. I guess I will just dive right into it an see what happens. If anyone has done this "switch over" maybe you could let me know where you began and if you encountered any unusual obstacles I should be prepared for. If you have seen a website posting or an article about this job, PLEASE reply and tell me where to look. Thanks again
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