66 toploader conversion

Originally Posted by archoplites

One thing missed was the speedo cable will now enter the tranny on the passenger side (at least this was the case with a 1966 C4 to toploader conversion). I made mine fit with some crossmember modification (very tight bends though). I believe the speedo gear also needs to be changed (different rotation?).

Good points! Yes, the speedo cable is longer and the speedo gear is indeed different--the teeth are cut in the opposite angle--don't try to shove your old gear in there or you will have bigger problems. Luckily both are readily available through the aftermarket.

How much power can a 28 spline toploader handle? Are their any other notable advantages to the 31 spline?
How about wide ratio vs. close ratio?

Hello

I am in the process of doing the same conversion as yourself. Most of the parts are available through places like Scott Drake and my only problem I found is the tailshaft on the transmission I picked up was out of a fairlane not a mustang causing the mounting holes to be in the wrong place. I may order a new tailshaft from David Kee Transmissions. Good luck, the standard has to be more fun to drive than the auto.

Greg

Originally Posted by kgordonl

How much power can a 28 spline toploader handle? Are their any other notable advantages to the 31 spline?
How about wide ratio vs. close ratio?

kgordonl,
I'm in the process of running a toplaoder behind my 427 ci small block that should make in the nieghborhood of 650 to 675hp and on top of that I'm gonna spray it just a little. I bought a larger input shaft 1 3/8" and the larger mainshaft 31 spline from David Kee's all because of the strength advantage and I am having the gears face plated by Liberty gear and I will also be running a Mcleod soft loc clutch set up.
It will be a while before the car is complete but the top loader is sure gonna be put to the test!
ken

Close ratio's are best for road racing/ high performance street stuff. wide ratio's are good for drag racing with their deeper first gear.

I don't think you need to be worried about the strength of the Toploader four speed. They are found behind stroked 427 Fords and larger engines. You can ask David Key whether you need the big input and mainshaft but unless you are running in excess of 600hp or a big shot of nitrous I don't think you need to wory about it.

I bought my Toploader from a guy that is owner/operator/gentleman/etc. by the name of Dan Williams. This guy seems to have tons of knowledge about Toploaders and their different applications. When I was ready for one to install into my Mustang it took one call and was a done deal. He told me that the Toploaders were so strong that even Chevy owners were adapting them to their cars because of their strength.