Manual Transmission Conversion

dbdragracing

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Dec 1, 2004
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I have a 1970 Mach 1 that currently has a C-6 installed....it came from the factory with a 3-speed manual. While Im in the process of restoring this car, I would like to return it to a manual (probably a 4-speed toploader). Is there a link where I can get the parts list or procedure on how to do this swap? Thanks.
 
basically you need;

flywheel
pressure plate
clutch disc
bellhousing
clutch linkage
clutch pedal
transmission
shifter
shift linkage
pilot bushing
block plate
clutch fork
throw out bearing

the NPD catalog will have everything you need to do the conversion as far as the small bits and pieces go. they even have exploded parts diagrams.
 
Thanks for the help. Looks a alot like the parts list for when I converted my '89 GT from AOD to a T-5. What about the clutch pedal....do I need a whole assembly or just the pedal? Thanks.
 
you just need the pedal. the pedal supports were all the same. i do recommend that you install a roller bearing kit in the pedal support though. it makes the clutch action easier, and you avoid the problems of the soft metal bushings wearing out fairly quickly and getting into the harder metal of the support itself.
 
Thanks for all the help. Im going to be gathering parts over the winter to do the conversion. Are the 4-speed toploaders capable of handling 5-600hp? Thanks.

Just stay away from the early toploader made with a 25 spline output shaft (pre-1965) and you will be fine. Luckily these are fairly rare.

With the Cleveland, you will want to find a toploader with the small block type input shaft. It is longer than the big block input shaft. Here is a pic showing the difference:

View attachment 358525

Also, you want the later style case too. Available from mid-1965 on. It has the proper bolt pattern for you bellhousing. Basically, it has wider mounting ears and a dual bolt pattern, such as seen in this pic:

1IMG_1015_tn.webp
 

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you just need the pedal. the pedal supports were all the same. i do recommend that you install a roller bearing kit in the pedal support though. it makes the clutch action easier, and you avoid the problems of the soft metal bushings wearing out fairly quickly and getting into the harder metal of the support itself.

A Centerforce clutch will also make clutch action quite a bit easier. In fact Centerforce recommends removing the clutch pedal spring when installing their clutch.