The Tremec GM TKX 5-Speed to 1949–53 Ford Flathead Engine Conversion is a complete transmission swap package engineered to adapt the modern TREMEC TKX 5-speed manual transmission to 1949–1953 Ford Flathead V8 engines. Designed for classic Ford restorations, hot rods, street rods, and custom builds, this all-in-one conversion kit includes the essential drivetrain components needed to replace the factory transmission with a modern overdrive manual while maintaining the character of the legendary Flathead engine.
Built around the TREMEC TKX transmission, this kit is rated to handle 600 lb-ft of torque and delivers smooth high-RPM shifting, exceptional durability, and reduced highway engine speeds thanks to its 0.68:1 overdrive fifth gear. The kit includes a Flathead-specific adapter, steel flywheel, clutch assembly, release components, pilot bearing, and premium ARP hardware, making it one of the most complete Flathead conversion packages available. For 1949–1953 applications, the factory 3-inch OEM adapter bellhousing is required and must be supplied by the installer.
Features
- Complete TREMEC TKX 5-speed conversion kit for 1949–1953 Ford Flathead V8 engines
- Genuine TREMEC TKX 5-speed manual transmission
- Rated for 600 lb-ft of torque
- Modern synchronized 5-speed transmission
- Slim aluminum case for improved tunnel clearance
- Smooth shifting at engine speeds up to 7,500 RPM
- 0.68 overdrive for reduced highway RPM
- GM-pattern TKX transmission with Flathead adapter system
- Includes Flathead steel flywheel
- Includes 10.5-inch clutch pressure plate and clutch disc
- Includes release bearing, pilot bearing, and clutch linkage components
- ARP flywheel and pressure plate hardware included
- Mechanical and electronic speedometer compatibility
- Excellent for hot rods, restorations, and street-driven classics
Gear Ratios
- 1st Gear: 3.27:1
- 2nd Gear: 1.98:1
- 3rd Gear: 1.34:1
- 4th Gear: 1.00:1
- 5th Gear: 0.68:1
- Reverse: 3.00:1
Specifications
- Brand: TREMEC
- Transmission Model: TKX
- Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual
- Engine Compatibility: 1949–1953 Ford Flathead V8
- Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Torque Capacity: 600 lb-ft
- Case Material: Ribbed Aluminum
- Input Shaft Diameter: 1.0625 Inches
- Input Shaft Spline Count: 26
- Output Shaft Diameter: 1.375 Inches
- Output Shaft Spline Count: 31
- Tailshaft Length: 6.5 Inches
- Shifter Style: Linkage Operated
- Speedometer Output: Mechanical and Electronic
- Shifter Included: Yes
- Bellhousing Adapter Included: Yes
- Slip Yoke Included: No
- Recommended Fluid: TREMEC HP-MTF or approved manual transmission fluid
- Maximum Shift RPM: 7,500 RPM
- Maximum Engine Speed: 8,000 RPM
Kit Includes
- TREMEC TKX 5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Flathead V8 Transmission Adapter
- Flathead Steel Flywheel
- 10.5-Inch Clutch Pressure Plate
- 10.5-Inch Clutch Disc
- Flathead Release Bearing
- Release Bearing Adapter
- Pilot Bearing
- Flathead Clutch Release Fork
- Clutch Release Shaft
- Clutch Release Shaft Pin
- Clutch Return Spring
- ARP Flywheel Bolts
- ARP Pressure Plate Bolts
- Installation Hardware
- Installation Instructions
Recommended Applications
Ideal for:
- 1949 Ford Custom
- 1950 Ford Deluxe
- 1951 Ford Victoria
- 1952 Ford Mainline
- 1953 Ford Crestline
- 1949–1953 Ford F-Series Trucks
- Ford Flathead V8 Restorations
- Traditional Hot Rods
- Street Rods
- Classic Ford Custom Builds
Designed specifically for 1949–1953 Ford Flathead V8 engines. The installer must reuse or source the original 3-inch OEM adapter bellhousing, as it is not included in the kit.
Installation Requirements
Installation may require:
- Original 1949–1953 Ford 3-Inch OEM Adapter Bellhousing
- 31-Spline Slip Yoke
- Custom Driveshaft
- Transmission Crossmember
- Transmission Mount
- Clutch Linkage Adjustment
- TREMEC HP-MTF or approved manual transmission fluid
Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper bellhousing alignment, clutch adjustment, and reliable drivetrain performance.
Warranty
The Tremec GM TKX 5-Speed to 1949–53 Ford Flathead Engine Conversion Kit is backed by a 1-Year Limited Warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and proper installation. Individual components may carry separate manufacturer warranties.
Why Choose the Tremec GM TKX Flathead Conversion Kit?
The Tremec GM TKX 5-Speed to 1949–53 Ford Flathead Engine Conversion Kit is the perfect upgrade for enthusiasts who want to preserve the classic character of the Ford Flathead V8 while enjoying the reliability and drivability of a modern manual transmission. With a 600 lb-ft torque capacity, 0.68 overdrive, 3.27:1 first gear, premium clutch components, Flathead-specific adapter system, and a comprehensive installation package, this conversion delivers smoother shifting, improved highway cruising, and exceptional durability for classic Ford restorations, hot rods, and custom builds.



