Finally getting around to installing my 312 in a 54 Ranch Wagon and wonder if the column shift rods will clear the stock 57 exhaust manifolds. Transmission is a T85 OD. Other options would be Red Heads headers or will the Rams Horns work. Any advice appreciated.

Thks,

Richard

I think it will clear but others will chime in, I would only say look for 55 56 neutral safty switch linkage easy to get and you will be able to use a 58 switch, it will start in park as well as neutral. Much easier to do while the motor is out and a very simple "safety up grade"

Lake Forest California  5th inf 77 Armor Div. VN 68/69

If you put your town and state in your signature

help might be closer than you think.

Huh??? Isn't the T-85 OD a manual?

BOB

Richard:

I'm pretty sure the shift linkage will work OK.  The tight spot will be getting the exhaust pipe past the clutch equalizer bar (often called Z bar).  '55-'56 bars had an offset in them to clear the exhaust pipe.  That bar will fit a '54.  A guy named Paul Farley used to be on this site, he did that very swap in his '54 wagon.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"

Thank you very much, I am sure other questions will arrise as I go.

Richard

I hate being over 50, had a brain fart. sorry.  Gerry

Lake Forest California  5th inf 77 Armor Div. VN 68/69

If you put your town and state in your signature

help might be closer than you think.

Hello Richard,

The column shift linkage will work fine as long as you have the correct arms that attach at the tranny.  I believe the 312 left side manifold may interfere with the '54 equalizer bar.   I had heard about possible interference issue, so prior to dropping in the 312 I located a 55-56 equalizer that had a slight offset that clears the manifold.   I remember the tolerance being so close that I put on the smaller L side dual exhaust manifold and later switched to the '57 and later manifold.   If I remember correctly it is the tailpipe to exhaust angle that is the problem.  I may have emailable pics.  Feel free to send a PM.  The good folks on this list helped on every stage of my swaps!! 

Paul F  '54 Ranchwagon (used to be t-85) currently T-5   

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