Toploader HEH-E into Hi-Tech 289?

Andy FIA · #1 (**permalink**) 08-26-2003, 05:24 PM

I have just located a good ex-Sunbeam Tiger HEH-E toploader which looks like a potential candidate to replace the "alien" Tremec in my Hi-Tech 289 FIA. And the 25 1/2" HEH-E coupled with a 289 bellhousing is only about 3/4" longer than the Tremec combination
Questions are, does the Tremec TR3550 and 28-spline Toploader output shaft use the same drive shaft yoke? Will the Tiger shifter be roughly in the right position in the 289 MKII transmission tunnel? Are there any pitfalls for using this particular model of toploader, spares availability etc?

Andy

Bob Putnam · #2 (**permalink**) 08-27-2003, 04:31 AM

According to my information, the 3550 and small-spline Toploader use the same slider.

It sounds like you've got the long tailshaft Toploader. Does it have two mounting bosses for the shift linkage?

Andy FIA · #3 (**permalink**) 08-27-2003, 12:19 PM

Bob,

Thanks for the info, I'm not sure about the mounting bosses for the shift linkage as I haven't seen the trans in the flesh yet. It was removed from a 4.2 tiger and has had relatively light use, so I am hoping that it will just need a light rebuild.

Andy

Sheppard · #4 (**permalink**) 08-27-2003, 04:33 PM

two words.....David Kee....you can find him at 4speedtoploader.com. The web page has a ton of useful info....and David is a great source of info.....good luck

Jay

Cal Metal · #5 (**permalink**) 08-30-2003, 03:40 PM

The Sunbeam has a unique 251/2 inch total length which is different than the standard 27 inch and 24 inch units. My suggestion would be to keep the Sunbeam tranny, as they are quite rare.

Buy a standard unit--probably a 24 inch--and sell the Sunbeam at a good premium. That Sunbeam tail is a C40R-70A040-A. Check David Kee's website under tail identification to get an idea as to what you are looking at.

Andy FIA · #6 (**permalink**) 08-31-2003, 05:05 PM

Thanks Cal - I have just done some cross referencing with my Ford books and David Kee's website and I missed the fact that most 1964 toploaders have the narrow 4 hole case for the 5-bolt bell-housing and also have the 25 spline output shaft.
I need to confirm this with the owner tomorrow before I drive a few hundred miles to spend my money. but, I also have chance of K-code 289 long block motor (no intake), how much is it worth paying? and is the value year dependant?

Andy