There are many variables to consider when swapping a different engine and transmission into your rod or custom project. Sorting out the engine mounts, transmission crossmember, torque converter (or clutch-and-flywheel combo), headers, and other major components can be a consuming process. And the job isn't finished after mounting the drivetrain in the frame; you still have to hook everything up and make it work.
We were recently reminded of all the "hidden" small tasks of an engine swap as we prepped a small-block Mopar and Torqueflite automatic for installation in a custom project. Like so many swaps, the engine came from one vehicle, the transmission from another, and neither came with transmission kickdown linkage that would work in our car. So, we were faced with a couple of options: cobble together a kickdown setup using the various rods and linkage pieces we had, or save ourselves some headache by ordering a kickdown cable from Lokar. The latter choice seemed like a no-brainer.
Lokar's Hi-Tech Kickdown cables offer a number of benefits over stock setups. Their cut-to-fit design means you can tailor the length to your particular engine-and-transmission setup without worrying about firewall clearance or other interference issues. They also offer smoother operation than hard linkage setups, and the braided stainless cable housing looks sharp too (black housings are available upon request). The kickdown kits are available for most popular domestic transmissions and, as you'll see in the accompanying photos, are pretty simple to install when used in conjunction with a Lokar throttle cable and bracket.
The cable bracket was installed...
The cable bracket was installed using the tailhousing bolt on our Torqueflite transmission.
This ball fitting was then...
This ball fitting was then mounted on the kickdown lever. We had to remove the lever to grind off its existing fitting, and also had to cut off several threads on the ball fitting to avoid interference with the transmission case (later lever designs may differ slightly from our '65 model).
Ultimately, the cable was...
Ultimately, the cable was hooked up to the transmission as shown.
After mounting the adjuster...
After mounting the adjuster bracket to the Lokar throttle cable bracket, we routed the kickdown cable and trimmed the housing to the appropriate length.
Next, this hex-shaped carb...
Next, this hex-shaped carb fitting was attached to the throttle linkage. Once installed, it should turn freely.
The instructions detailed...
The instructions detailed how to adjust the cable itself. Basically, the cable stop should be installed about 1.5 inches from the hex fitting, so the cable fully engages the transmission kickdown lever when the throttle is wide open. Of course, you should testdrive the car to ensure proper kickdown operation before cutting off any excess cable.