1968 Ford F-100 - The Bumpside Build-Off - Tech

As fate would have it, the Tremec TR-3650 has a unique tranny mount since it's made specifically for the Mustang, and I wanted to add a bit of universality to how it mounts, so I picked up a Prothane GM (I know...) automatic tranny mount from Classic Performance Products.

A stock GM rubber mount is a bit too wide to fit in this spot on the tranny just ahead of the stock mount, which is why I got the urethane mount from CPP. After centering the mount on the tranny and adding small spacers on each side to clear a rib on the bottom of the tranny, I transferred and drilled mounting holes in this flange that's open above on each side. This would make incorporating a tranny crossmember much easier.

After making rough measurements of what I needed, I also picked up one of CPP's universal tubular tranny crossmembers while I was there, which went in nicely. They make parts for lots of applications and should be able to get you what you're after. You may notice the unusual flange on the yoke in the tranny. The late-model TR-3650 doesn't use a slip yoke, nor can you change it over to one, so a slip joint in the driveshaft is needed.

I took my driveshaft questions and measurements to our friendly neighbors at O.C. Driveline here in Placentia, CA, who are used to doing custom driveshafts with all the hot rods and such running around SoCal. Ray got started on my driveshaft, and soon after they had it ready to go and balanced to 5,200 rpm, which is fine for most street applications.

Here's the finished driveshaft from O.C. Driveline complete with the slip joint and the Spicer (PN 2-2-1379) front yoke to go to the Tremec TR-3650 five-speed from Ford Racing Performance Parts. Now that the drivetrain from FRPP is firmly mounted in the '68, I'll be able to sleep a bit better at night. Stay tuned for next month's installment of the Bumpside Build-Off as we continue to blaze new trails!