QuestionQUESTION: hi dick i've located a 3 speed trans for my 56 tbird i've been told it came from a 57 tbird.the number on the case is T-85-C-7A the number on the tail is R11-1E the number on the side cover is T89B-148 would this be the correct trans for my 56 tbird thanks dick
ANSWER: The R-11 indicates an overdrive transmission, not a 3 speed. If your 56 has overdrive, this will probably fit OK, but if the 56 has a plain 3-speed, this one will not work without extensive modifications to the driveline and the addition of overdrive controls.
The displacement of the engine also affects which transmission was used - the 312 used a different transmission than the 292. I'm guessing here, but I think either would fit, but the gear ratios are probably different for first and second gear.
Dick
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QUESTION: hi dick does the casting number T-85-C-7A on the case mean it's heavy duty for my 312 eng and is this a tbird trans. thanks again dick
AnswerI don't know for sure, but the T85 is a very robust transmission - and the 312 isn't all that much of a monster - as far as torque, so if it fits, I'd use it. I'm worried about that overdrive, though! Don't ever drive it in second overdrive - use overdrive only in 3rd gear, and don't be rough with it. The planetary gearset in the R11 is not up to high torque loads.
The T85 isn't the Ford part number - that's a Warner Gear number. I don't have any way to cross reference what T85 version number was used in the 312 'birds. Sorry.
Look for a tag on the case which gives the Ford part number.
The Ford part number on the tag for a '56 Bird with Overdrive is B6S-7003B.
If you are looking at a 57 trans from a 'bird with 312 and overdrive, it should be marked B7S-7003C. If it came from a 292 with overdrive, it should be marked B7S-7003D
Dick
