Re: Transmission Interchangeability?

Posted by flackmaster On 2013/1/21 0:43:38

Yes, the 39 R6 is a direct bolt-up, no issues with that. I believe the overdrive final drive ratio is the same - 22% savings comes to mind, but its late... There is a huge difference in the wiring of an R9 vs. an R6. In short, the R9 integrates a governor to "allow" overdrive to engage, and a complex/expensive relay to coordinate solenoid operation. Certainly can be done but represents more parts, and more potential electrical issues. The R6 is much more of a "one wire" installation, when the overdrive is engaged, energy to the solenoid to allow operation, and a simple kickdown switch to disengage. In either case you will have to make a "delicate adaptation" at the crossmember to fit the overdrive section into position, just know the crossmember area is quite robust and a few reinforcement plates if you feel the need will not be difficult to fabricate.

I am not familiar with adaptation of a Ford Ranger gearbox, if you go this route, please, please keep detailed notes and post accordingly. I do know of a 38/39 owner who installed a Toyota transmission with an overdrive 5th gear as well, so there may indeed be creative options. Sorry to say Toyota trans guy never got back to me with pictures or notes so this is merely a "one guys solution" story. But then you really open up yourself to engineering challenges and, heaven forbid, the criticism of putting a Ford transmission in a Packard. Far be it for me to point fingers...in fact, I'd be real interested to know what additional options are out there.

The transmission pictured is crated and read to ship, price...hmmm...I saw two R9's at Hershey change hands in the 4 digits, and I just sold an R9 in the same ballpark. Is an R6 worth more or less? For your purposes, I believe it worth more because you won't get bogged down in the electronics of the R9, which is truthfully why I brought up the option; to others, it is sometimes viewed as the bastard stepchild of Packard overdrives, being a one-year only overdrive section(the transmission section is basically the same to 54). I want to sell it to someone such as yourself who truly needs it (4.54's OUCH!) So I will ask 1239.38 and see what counteroffer we can agree on. Please make an informed decision whichever way you proceed.

Incidentally, I have a set of 3.92 gears if you want to go that route...