Do they just seem to run at higher rpm? Mabe it is shifting and I don't realize it ?

Follow Hoosier's advice and take a look at that shaft that is connected to your transmission. There should be two shafts - one to shift your gears and one to keep fluid pressure through the system so that it shifts at the right point (I think that is idea anyhow - anyone want to correct me here go ahead). Anyhow on the driver's side of that bellcrank attached to your manifold is that clevis that Hoosier spoke of. If you remove the cotter pin from the bellcrank you can take the bracket and spin it on the rod - the top of that rod that goes to your trans is threaded. If you LENGTHEN THE ROD you will see faster/harder shift points. If you SHORTEN THE ROD you will see slower/softer shift points. Obviously the rod is lengthened or shortened by turning that small "L" shaped bracket on the end of the rod. Remember though, a little goes a long way. I would try one full turn at a time, drive it, note the difference and keep going until it is shifting the way you want it to.

Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com

re shift points.Go to a library and get hold of a motors repair manual,it shows how to properly set the throtle and throttel pressure rod. i have 1 but cant seem to master the picture thing.basic ther is a hole in the bracket that alighnes the tp lever and throttel position. you insert a drill bit inthe hole remove the tp pin and adjust the clevice.

Just remember that bell crank can have a mind of its own if not properly setup with correct springs and lubed well. Also there is a hole in it so you can line everything up to start with. You'll have to do a search.. or someone maybe kind enough to find a link for you ; o )



"Came too close to dying to stop living now!"

Ok so if I don't think it is shifting I shorton the rod is thar correct?

If it is not shifting, INCREASE THE LENGTH of the rod. This will mean that the transmission will shift sooner... if it is not shifting at all, the rod is not keeping enough tension on the lever on the side of your transmission and will need more turns than just one at the "L" shaped bracket. That small lever on the side of your transmission is SPRING LOADED... the rod pushes against the lever once you actuate the throttle. You may want to have someone get in the car and mash the accelerator pedal for you while you get under the hood and check to see if the tension rod is moving.

Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com

It's not an overdrive.  You mentioned 70mph.  The motor is in the neighborhood of 3000rpm at 70.  If that happens to be what you call a "higher RPM," then yes.



Lawrenceville, GA

Not sure on rpm I guess I'll pick up a tack to see just where I'm at.
Thanks Bob

Here is a Pic of the adjustment procedure from the Fordomatic(Mercomatic) Shop Manual.Note that the MAXIMUM # of turns to lengthen the Rod is(4). 3 is the preferred length.By the way I have 2  print versions of the Fordomatic Transmission Manuals listed on Ebay if anyone would like to have their own complete Manual.Items #'s 191278727242 and 271570708860.

  

The shifts are also controlled by the governor and if this sticks then it will not upshift from 2nd to 3rd.You can access the governor and remove it for inspection and/or cleaning through the small hatch on the R/H side of the extension housingThere are 2 slotted head screws holding the cover. Once removed there are 2 bolts (can't remember what size they are but close to 7/16 socket probably) holding the governor body on.
When you get it out the valve should move back and forward freely

Gary - 1958 Star Customline and 1940 Ford Deluxe Hotrod