How to install a 5-speed behind a x-flow

[escondidoron]

I'm interested in installing a 5-speed behind my old pre-crossflow in my '62 Seven and have lots of questions regarding this upgrade. I should note that I don't want to make any serious chassis mod's if I don't have to as I would like to be able to put everything back to original if I ever decide to sell the car. I have good fab skills and a decently equipped home shop. Making mounts, revising the hydraulic system for a different clutch, some new aluminum panels and a new drive shaft doesn't scare me. I am thinking that a T-9 is probably the easiest path forward.

 

So here goes with the questions:

 

1) Has anybody here upgraded from the Ford 4-speed to a 5-speed behind either a pre-X-flow or an X-flow?

 

2) Is it true that the pre-X-flow has the same bolt pattern on the block as the later X-flow / Pinto / Zetec?

 

3) Knowing that the current Miata uses the Duratec I started wondering if a Miata box is a possibility? I'm guessing that it is not, but I thought it to be worth checking out due to the relatively easy availability of Miata parts here.

 

4) Is the T-9 the best / only cost-effective option to pursue?

 

5) Are there different T-9 housings or are they all the same regarding;

a) overall length

b) transmission mounting

c) shifter location

 

6) What bellhousing is the one to use to mate the T-9 to an X-flow?

 

7) Is a different flywheel / starter required when swapping the transmission?

 

8) Is the only T-9 donor (here in the States) the XR4-Ti? or will a box out of a 4-cyl Mustang or T-Bird work (MT75?)?

 

Any / all help is appreciated.

[scannon]

Ben at Caterham USA (303 765 0247) would likely know exactly what is needed for the swap. He is a source for the T-9 transmission and other parts.

 

The Miata Duratec uses a different transmission than the 1st and 2nd generation Miatas.

 

Think about installing an engine and trans from a Miata as a unit. That way your original drivetrain remains intact for restoring back to original. In the meantime you gain Japanese reliability, almost unlimited power upgrades and fuel injection. As a bonus it will severely piss off the purists.

[Ian7]

I have seen many posts complaining that the standard T9 has a uselessly low 1st gear ratio and too large a gap to second. Couldn't find one to drive before deciding on my car, so I went with a Quaife box with my choice of ratios. Not cheap, but bolts right on to a X-flow.

Call Taylor-Race Engineering in Texas.