New Tranny

[KiddPanther]

I have a 79 Conti with a 3 speed that I would like to replace with a newer more modern 5 or 6 speed. Are there any recommendations? I have a 6.6 v8 400cid, and would like to know where I can find one. If any one can help, thanks in advance. Doesn't have to be modern, or even new for that matter. Just more than 3 speeds.

[Dereck]

I have a 79 Conti with a 3 speed that I would like to replace with a newer more modern 5 or 6 speed. Are there any recommendations? I have a 6.6 v8 400cid, and would like to know where I can find one. If any one can help, thanks in advance. Doesn't have to be modern, or even new for that matter. Just more than 3 speeds.

Hi KiddPanther

Why?

The C6 is a fantastic transmission just about indestructable so what if it's only got 3 gears and if it's fuel economy you are after I am affraid you choose the wrong vehicle :)

Regards

Dereck

[MichiganTeddyBear]

ok, while no expert in the older conti's, heres what your gonna be up against.

1. bell housing bolt pattern
2. tranny size (physical size)
3. going from a mechanically controlled to an electronic one (with exception of an older AOD).
4. getting the electronics for said newer trans.

not impossible, but not a simple tranny swap. and older TV controlled AOD (4 speed) would probably be the easiest, but depending on the condition of the tranny, and how you drive the car, it might not be the best option.

you can get 4r70w's with seperate trans controllers if I am not mistaken, which might be a better choice than the AOD, since they are said to be stronger internally.

you can of course get an AOD rebuilt with some of the 4r's parts to get a beefier AOD too.

edit:

Thanks for beating me to the C6 punch Derek, I was gonna say that too!

[KiddPanther]

Thanks, wasn't really looking for econ, but after the tongue lashing I just got, I'll just have it beefed up some. Don't know much about these cars (or cars in general) I just thought I would be better serve with something with more gears. I wanted to hot rod it up a little. This is why I joined so I could learn these things. Let's just consider this research.

[pro-five-oh]

Welcome. And don't listen to Dereck, he doesn't need more than 3-speeds up in the UK...not enough road to need it. :P

The 6.6L is the same engine (basically) as the 5.0 so you can use the Ford AOD and get a 4th gear. Its nice because it has the same ratios as the C6 but with an overdrive.

This will be somewhat costly to do, because you'll need the linkage from a carb'd car (not too common) and getting a used AOD (Lincoln Town Car is ideal) is likely to need a full rebuild ($1000, less if you know a guy) and you might need a new driveshaft too.

But good luck with it, you have a fair bit of knowledge to chew on now.

[gadget73]

The AOD will not fit. The 400/6.6L is totally unrelated to the 302, different bellhouse bolt pattern, etc. The 400 is based on the 351c, but it has the same bolt pattern for the trans as a 429 or 460. Basically you're looking at truck trannys or something aftermarket intended for a big block powered hot rod.

If you want to build a 400, look for info on the 351 Cleveland. Its about 90% the same, with some differences but most of the Cleveland tricks and parts work on a 400. Most of where you're going to help things are with the intake and the cam. The stock cam and timing set is pretty pathetic, and that little 2bbl carb is not helping. With some work, you can build a 400 hp 400 CID engine and turn that car into a true terror with a "junk" engine.

http://www.projectbronco.com/Technical_Articles/351m400_performance_build_up.htm

[pro-five-oh]

Oh yeah, that's right. The 400 was made to go right where a 460 would normally go. (if gas prices always stayed low)

In that case, getting a 90s F-series transmission with 4 speeds would work fine, just getting the cable to the carb, dimensions (might not clear the body) and driveshaft worked out would be needed.