A Manual Transmission Manual

This cable-clutch conversion kit comes from DB Performance. Unlike the lever and bellcrank linkage, the cable can be routed around obstacles. The pedal set has been refurbished, and the arm on the clutch pedal modified to work with the cable arrangement.

This shot shows the modified pedal arm next to a stock arm. The original clutch linkage was a push-style arrangement, while the cable system pulls to disengage the clutch.

To install any type of overdrive transmission, you've got to have a conversion crossmember. DB Performance has them for several different classic Ford cars. They can provide everything you'll need to perform the T-5 cable conversion, including a driveshaft.

Our project car is a '65 coupe with a C4 automatic transmission. Inside the car, the first step is to eliminate the automatic-pedal arrangement and to install the modified manual-transmission pedal set (shown here).

Here, the precise location for the cable hole is measured, and a pilot hole drilled. check on the inside of the firewall to be sure that no wiring is in the way.

The next step was to enlarge the hole to the required 1/2-inch diameter. This is done carefully since too large a hole could allow unwanted cable movement.

The cable is guided through the firewall to emerge just above the new pedal set. As we route the cable, we will be sure to avoid areas where heat or moving parts might pose a danger.

With the car up in the air, the new T-5 is raised into position using a transmission jack. With the transmission held in the correct location, clearances are checked. By working carefully, we were able to get around the exhaust system without having to cut it.

With the transmission raised into the final position, it became clear that we could leave the factory shift hole in the transmission tunnel alone and still operate the shifter for all gears. However, the transmission would have to be removed if we ever wanted to remove or change the shifter. We opted to enlarge the hole (shown here).