Tech Tip: Transmissions

By: Terry Tanner

In the Bricklin saga, the transmission has not been a regular service problem. We have not had to rebuild more than a couple of transmissions. In view of the fact that many cars do not get the transmission oil changed or checked, the overall transmission performance has been very good. In most cases there are areas that can be improved with modern parts, as in the ‘74 model 4-speed units. The transmission is a T-10 Borg Warner. The problem has been in the clutch area. The pedal pressure required is approximately 90 psi. With the change to a GM clutch pressure plate and clutch disk, the pedal pressure can be cut in half, which makes driving a pleasure.

The ‘74 automatics are a Chrysler 727, torque-flite transmission, which is a very strong unit that can handle large horsepower engines. Many shift kits are available for it. All ‘75 and '76 models have the FMX Ford transmission which is a very good unit, but they are very hard to rebuild and not many modification kits are available. The best change I have found is a new transmission made by Ford called a A 0 D (automatic overdrive). This transmission was developed in the late 70's and is in many small block (302 cu. in.) applications, i.e., Mustangs. It is a bolt on, if out of an 88-89 model car. (Note: If a later transmission,.i.e., 90-91-92 is used, the kick-down linkage will have to be modified). I have an '89 Cougar transmission in my white car. The addition of the A 0 D has made a 4 mpg improvement (Editor's Note: 4 mpg is about a 25% improvement) and reduced the operating temperature at road speeds over 70 mph from 220 degrees down to 180 degrees. Also, the cruising speed at 2000 rpm is now 80 mph. This makes a very nice change to any 1975 Bricklin.