Will a 4 speed top loader transmission bolt on to my 272 that had a three speed with the shifter on the column? what will if any have to be changed...such as drive shaft..etc? thanks

There are a number of different toploaders. Small block, big block and 427/428. The small block and big block ones also have close ratio and wide ratio. The 427/428 is distinguished by a extra big input and output shafts (1 3/8 vs 1 1/16)



The small block ones have a longer input shaft than the big blocks.



There are three distinctive bolt patterns in toploaders. The early ones used the YBlock pattern. The second generation used both the Y pattern and a wider pattern on the top. The lower pattern remained the same. The third generation used only the wide pattern on the top, but I have been told you can drill the Y pattern with no problem.



With the small block trans, you need to do two mods. The input shaft has to be shortened (by about 3/8 inch, but always check the measurement for this) and the front bearing retainer has to be machined down a very little to fit in the Y bellhousing hole. Also measure this.



Not sure about the big block trans - since the input shaft is shorter, a modified crank bushing may have to be made up (To extend it????).





Regarding shifter location, the early falcon's had the shifter mounted right next to the case so it shouldn't interfere with the seat if the right shift handle is used. I don't know what else used the same mounting point, but this tailshaft is being reproduced by David Kee toploaders. Go to www.davidkeetoploaders.com for lots of info.



I put a early toploader in back of the 312 in my 54 and am very happy with it.



More than likely you will have to get a new driveshaft. You will have to get a new slip joint to fit the trans.

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ