I just purchased my first classic, 71 442. I am not a mechanic and trying to learn as much as I can as I go. My 442 has the 455 in it. It seems like once I get around 50 mph plus it should kick into a higher gear. Is it at it's highest gear or is something wrong? Thanks

 

How many times does it shift between 0mph and 50mph?

 

What 'Junkie said.

It's a 3-speed transmission. It should shift twice (1-2 and 2-3). Count the shifts.
"Mmmmmmmmm..BZMmmmmmmmmm..BZMmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. .."
(Like my transmission imitation? ?)

What's your rear-end ratio?

- Eric

 

If you have never driven a car with a 3speed auto, and moderate gearing, say 3:23's or 3:42's, it will seem like it needs another gear, but that is normal. What rpm's are you running?

 

Let's be honest - It DOES need another gear. The manuals do, too (all 1:1 final drive).
They just weren't handing 'em out back then in American cars.

- Eric

 

The guys that were buying performance cars "back in the day" weren't looking for highway cruisers, but street performance...stoplight to stoplight, and usually did not have to commute to far to work, hence the stiff gears.

 

i thought "442" stood for 4 barrel carb, 4 speed trans, & 2 (dual) exhaust?? how can it be a 442 with a 3 speed tranny?? correct me if i'm wrong....

 

When it debuted in '64 that was the case but by the next year they were offering automatics with less than four fwd speeds.

 

It's what's called "marketing" and "flexible definitions."

- Eric

 

okay, got it....thanks guys!!

 

Thanks everyone for the clarification. It does shift twice so it sounds like I'm good to go.

 

I have limited slip rear end with 3.40 ratio.

 

I have a limited slip rear end with 3.40 ratio