4 speed shifter - std 833 vs OD

[ncrobb]

Currently running the factory 3 speed in my 73 Road Runner but I have a shifter question for changing over to a 4 speed. Will the same shifter, linkage, etc work on both the standard and over drive A833 models? It would seem so. I think the arm for 3-4 installs 180 degrees up on the OD?

As a related side note, is the gearing ratio between first and second drastically noticeable? I expect to lose some engine RPM between gears with the OD but are we talking fall on its face ? Right now the 318 is stock and a little tired. I was thinking to swap transmissions and do a little engine upgrading/freshening at the same time.

 

[91r/t]

I believe the shifter would work but the rods will be different lengths to accommodate the shift flap being rotated 180 degrees. Check out Brewers performance as they list an overdrive lever kit for that trans.

 

[YY1]

I put 71-74 standard rods and mount on my 87 truck OD unit.

Works perfect after flipping the 3-4 ear over.

Shifter is also standard, as is the 71-74 pistol grip.

Yes, there is a noticeable RPM drop between 1 and 2 and there is a lot of shifting between 2 and 3 (the cross gate shift)

Still fun, though.

I wouldn't run any steep gears (like 3.91 or 4.10) or first gear will be useless.

 

[ncrobb]

The rear is 3.55.

 

[YY1]

If you do it, let us know about the first gear feel and what size tires you run.

 

[ncrobb]

She has factory 15” Rallyes with 245/60R15 tires on her. I was digging around and since I’m already running a 3 speed if I put an overdrive 4 speed in I don’t think I’d notice any difference between 1-2 and 2-3 between the two based on the gear ratios I found listed. Forgive my horrible scratch writing.

 

[MCODECUDA]

You can run a 3 speed shifter on a 4 speed transmission as long as you never need to use reverse.

 

[YY1]

Good point on 3 speed splits vs OD 4 speed splits.

Most people forget that a 3 speed was standard in a LOT of late 60's muscle cars and many were built that way.

 

[wyrmrider]

separate lever for reverse
way cool
just be sure you are in neutral when you use it or you will be in Park