5 spd tranny

[Ozblitz]

Just a general question, but I've read a lot of people put mazda built 5 spds from F150 In trucks when going stick. Is there any reason why a mustang T5 wouldn't be used? Im just curious, I dont want to buy a T5 and for some reason it not work or fit.

[sargentrs]

Couple of issues with the Mustang T5's from the late '70s - early 90's. First of all, they are a car transmission and while they worked perfectly fine in the Mustangs, asking one to push a pickup is a little more than it was intended for. Not to say it won't do it but don't be surprised if you drive hard and it breaks down sooner than you think. Sensible driving and shifting and it'll do you just fine. The next thing is that they are designed with a "pull" action clutch fork and our trucks have a "push" action clutch. You'll have to modify/improvise your clutch geometry by converting to a hydraulic mechanism or a quadrant and cable mechanism at the clutch pedal, which I believe you have to do with the M5R2 tranny's too http://www.fordification.com/tech/M5R2_5spd-swap.htm None of this is a deal breaker.

[Ozblitz]

So, even if I used the Mazda trans I would still need to modify to a hydralic cable, right? So, are the gears on the Mazda trans heavier duty than T5, is that why the T5 is vulnerable to hard driving?
The T5 I have is from a 95 Mustang, just so you know.

I wouldn't be using it for racing or anything, just normal driving w/ occassional pull of a trailer.

[Ozblitz]

Thanks for the link. But it sounds like the M5R2 also has some gearing concerns. The gear in my 67 is 3.70.

[Canonman67]

Another option is the nv4500, either Dodge or Chevy versions work but you have to change the input shaft on the Chevy to Dodge. It's more of a truck trans with a 6. something first gear and a .73 overdrive. No changes to the clutch mechanism necessary though the adapter is about $200. I've put one in my '70 behind a 390 but the adapter will work with a small block also.

[sargentrs]

So, even if I used the Mazda trans I would still need to modify to a hydralic cable, right? So, are the gears on the Mazda trans heavier duty than T5, is that why the T5 is vulnerable to hard driving?
The T5 I have is from a 95 Mustang, just so you know.

I wouldn't be using it for racing or anything, just normal driving w/ occassional pull of a trailer.

Yes, you would have to modify the clutch mechanism. It's not that the T5 is vulnerable, it's just the extra weight of the truck, especially if towing. It's the equivalent of having more miles on it in a shorter period of time. Just extra wear and tear it's not designed for. Ever see a trailer hitch on a Mustang? The M5R2 was at least designed for truck/towing usage, although the application is more small truck oriented. Like Canonman said, the NV4500 is better suited for the application. It was designed for use in full size trucks. Easily found for $1000 professionally rebuilt or junk yard for a lot less. Found in 1991-2006 GM and Dodge 2500/3500 trucks. The Mazda and T5 trannies will run you about the same and are just as easily found. All will work with modifications. Pretty much your call.

[DuckRyder]

A 95 would be a "world class" T5 right?

[HIO Silver]

I went with a TKO-500. I spec'ed a shortened input shaft ($115) and it bolts right in with no adapter. Talk to Bruce or Paul at Modern Driveline.

[Ranchero50]

A 95 would be a "world class" T5 right?

If memory serves, anything post '87 or so was 'world class' B/W changed some of the bearing layout to make it survive upgrades better. Cone bearing between the input and main shaft was one of the bigger deals back in the day. Otherwise none of them were bulletproof. I used to have a pile of spares in the shed.

[Ozblitz]

Thanks cannon man, now I have to go read up on the nv4500. I never thought a T5 wouldn't be a good choice, I didn't think that much into it.

[Canonman67]

I can't get to my computer but if you check the 4th page of my build thread near the top are a couple of links that'll get you started. Good luck and be sure to post your project with pictures whatever you decide to do.

[tnab1970]

We installed 5 speed from a "90 model F150 into a '69 f100 with 3.70 gears. We are running 33" tires and it drives great. Very easy to install. Modified the cross member from the '90 to work on my frame, Had to have '90 drive shaft shortened and relocate the carrier bearing. I have pics of how we did the clutch pedal / Slave cylinder mod. We really like the setup pulls good and cruises nice. they are very easy to locate.

[tnab1970]

PS: I think I posted some of the pics in the Pre-runner thread.