Model L or KA Lincoln overdrive | Classic car club of america Forums

scott12180 · 2010-01-05T22:13:04.000Z

Hi all ---Has anyone installed an overdrive onto a Model L or V8 KA Lincoln? I'm thinking about a 1932 but wondering about earlier cars as well. Curious to know if this can be done and who did it for you, or which overdrive unit you used? Are you happy with the result? Any suggestions? I know that high speed gears are available but in my hilly country an overdrive is preferred to preserve the lower ratio gears when necessary. Thanks -- Scott

S

· Jan 5, 2010

Scott,

My grandfather had both an L and a K. I can say that the L cruised comfortably at 50-55mph, and probably couldn't stop from anything much faster than that.

The 1931 K was much faster and more refined. It was really twice the car in so many ways. I believe it was quite comfortable at 60, but I didn't really drive it as much as the L. The K has much better brakes and steering though.

All that being said, I would really love to have that 1930 L back. It was Grandpa's and my favorite.

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M

· Jan 6, 2010

I would agree with you that an overdrive is the way to go. Check out Gear Vendors Overdrive. They are in California. They specialize in supplying overdrives to all types of cars, especially big Classics. They are very knowledgable and will talk to you about your application and make appropriate recommendations. Their website is www.gearvendors.com

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V

· Jan 6, 2010

I have a Borg Warner overdrive in my 29 L and it works fine. However, make sure you have room to stop. I have a 33 KA that I was going to put a Mitchell overdrive in, but never got the torque tube worked out from the Mitchell Manufacturing company.

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W

· Oct 15, 2011

I have a Borg Warner overdrive in my 29 L and it works fine. However, make sure you have room to stop. I have a 33 KA that I was going to put a Mitchell overdrive in, but never got the torque tube worked out from the Mitchell Manufacturing company.

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