
1956 Ford Thunderbird Special V-8 312-cid 225-hp 4-bbl dual-exh Y-block P-code (or S-code) eng (w/ Fordomatic Dr only) mid model-year
Engines Clutches Transmissions Axles Rims Tires
PAGE INDEX Click links or scroll down
• Engines • Clutches • Transmissions • Rear Axle Ratios • Rims • Tires
• 312 CID HP Eng Kit • I-6 Tuneup & Oil • V-8 Tuneup & Oil • Service Parts • Wheel Alignment
• 312 CID HP Eng Kit • I-6 Tuneup & Oil • V-8 Tuneup & Oil • Service Parts • Wheel Alignment

1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Engines
• Ford I-6 223-cid 137-hp 1-bbl single-exh A-code
• Ford V-8 272-cid 173-hp (176-hp w/ Fordomatic) 2-bbl single-exh (opt dual) U-code
• Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200-hp (202-hp w/ Fordomatic) 4-bbl dual-exh M-code
• Thunderbird Special V-8 312-cid 225-hp 4-bbl dual-exh P-code (w/ Fordomatic only) (or S-code*) mid model-year
*S-code in 65 cars w/ Fordomatic & 455 cars w/ Conv Dr in place of Thunderbird V-8 292-cid M-code
• Special Police Y-8 292-cid 200-hp (202-hp w/ Fordomatic) 4-bbl dual-exh M-code (HD equip incld)
• (Police) Interceptor Y-8 312-cid 210-hp (215-hp w/ Fordomatic) 4-bbl dual-exh P-code (HD equip incld) mid model-year
• "312 Cubic Inch High Power Engine Kit" 260-hp Jul 6, 1956 (late model-year)
special-order HP parts to modify the V-8 312-cid eng for police, NASCAR, Thunderbird, & public not factory installed
Engine Prices, Specs, Tuneup, & Oil Change - view or print 11-page PDF (here)


Ford I-6 223-cid 137-hp A-code, all drives
standard Courier (Sedan Delivery) (incld in I-6 Courier price)
optional Mainline & Customline $93.77 less than std Ford V-8 272-cid 173/176-hp U-code
optional Fairlane & stn wagon $93.77 less than std Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200/202-hp M-code
(not avail Fairlane Fordor Victoria)
6 cyl in-line 2 overhead-valve
Hp 137 @ 4200 rpm Torque 202 lb-ft @ 1600-2600 rpm
CID 223 Bore 3.62" x Stroke 3.60" Main Bearings 4 Counterweights 9
Comp Ratio 8.0 to 1 Comp Press 150 psi sea level @ cranking speed
Carb Single Jet (1-bbl) Holley 1904, manual choke Air Cleaner oil-bath type
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Fan 3-blade 18" dia Exhaust single Fuel reg
Bore max allow oversize 0.060" + 3.62" = 3.68" bore = 230 CID
I-6 Tuneup Specs (here)
Hp 137 @ 4200 rpm Torque 202 lb-ft @ 1600-2600 rpm
CID 223 Bore 3.62" x Stroke 3.60" Main Bearings 4 Counterweights 9
Comp Ratio 8.0 to 1 Comp Press 150 psi sea level @ cranking speed
Carb Single Jet (1-bbl) Holley 1904, manual choke Air Cleaner oil-bath type
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Fan 3-blade 18" dia Exhaust single Fuel reg
Bore max allow oversize 0.060" + 3.62" = 3.68" bore = 230 CID


Ford V-8 272-cid 173-hp (176-hp w/ Fordomatic Dr) U-code, all drives
std Mainline & Customline (incld in V-8 vehicle price)
opt Courier (Sedan Delivery) $93.77 over std Ford I-6 223-cid 137-hp A-code
(not avail Fairlane & stn wagon)
8 cyl 90°-V 2 overhead-valve (intake 1.78," exh 1.51") solid valve lifters Y-Block
Hp 173 @ 4400 rpm Torque 260 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 176 @ 4400 rpm Torque 264 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 165 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 272 Bore 3.62" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearing 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Twin-Jet (2-bbl) Holley 2110, auto choke Air Cleaner oil-bath type
Fan 3-blade 18" dia, all except Courier (Sedan Delivery) 4-blade 18-1/2" dia
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Exhaust single (opt dual) Fuel reg
Block ECG-6015 Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECG-6090-H (Conv Dr & OD) or ECG-6090-R (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.060" + 3.62" = 3.68" bore = 281 CID
V-8 Tuneup Specs (here)
Hp 173 @ 4400 rpm Torque 260 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 176 @ 4400 rpm Torque 264 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 165 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 272 Bore 3.62" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearing 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Twin-Jet (2-bbl) Holley 2110, auto choke Air Cleaner oil-bath type
Fan 3-blade 18" dia, all except Courier (Sedan Delivery) 4-blade 18-1/2" dia
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Exhaust single (opt dual) Fuel reg
Block ECG-6015 Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECG-6090-H (Conv Dr & OD) or ECG-6090-R (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.060" + 3.62" = 3.68" bore = 281 CID


Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200-hp (202-hp w/ Fordomatic Dr) M-Code, all drives
std Fairlane & stn wagon (incld in V-8 vehicle price)
opt Mainline & Customline $50 over std Ford V-8 272-cid 173/176-hp U-code
(not avail Courier)
8 cyl 90°-V 2 overhead-valve (intake 1.78," exh 1.51") solid valve lifters Y-Block
Hp 200 @ 4600 rpm Torque 285 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 202 @ 4600 rpm Torque 289 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 292 Bore 3.75" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke (NOTE Holley 4000 carbs for 1956 V-8 292 & 312 Ford, Thunderbird, & Mercury will interchange - Parts Locator, Jim O'Clair)
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath Generator low cut-in 30-amp
Fan 3-blade 18" dia Exhaust dual Fuel reg (prem for max performance)
Block ECK-6015 or EDB-6015-A (Dearborn foundry), ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads EDB-6090-B or ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD), ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.75" = 3.79" bore = 298 CID
V-8 Tuneup Specs (here)
Hp 200 @ 4600 rpm Torque 285 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 202 @ 4600 rpm Torque 289 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 292 Bore 3.75" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke (NOTE Holley 4000 carbs for 1956 V-8 292 & 312 Ford, Thunderbird, & Mercury will interchange - Parts Locator, Jim O'Clair)
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath Generator low cut-in 30-amp
Fan 3-blade 18" dia Exhaust dual Fuel reg (prem for max performance)
Block ECK-6015 or EDB-6015-A (Dearborn foundry), ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads EDB-6090-B or ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD), ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.75" = 3.79" bore = 298 CID


Thunderbird Special V-8 312-cid 225-hp P-code (Fordomatic Dr only) (or S-code*)
mid model-year (NOTE Thunderbird model V-8 has 215-hp w/ Overdrive or 225-hp w/ Fordomatic Dr)
*An anomaly—an S-code eng in some 1956 Fairlane, Customline, and Mainline, (65 w/ Fordomatic Dr and 455 w/ Conv Dr), in place of the Thunderbird V-8 292-cid M-code eng. Rocker covers incorrectly state "Thunderbird V-8" (instead of "Thunderbird Special V-8"). Identification is by an "S" (instead of a "P") as the 1st letter of the serial number and a 2-inch-square daub of yellow heat resisting paint on the eng front. Tech Service Bulletin (here)
$100 over std Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200/202-hp M-code
opt Fairlane Club & Town Sedan, Ranch Wgn, Custom Ranch Wgn, Parklane, & 6-Pass Country Sedan
plus required Fordomatic Dr $178.20 + 7.10 x 15" tires $20 = $298.20 Total
opt Fairlane Vic, Fordor Vic, Crown Vic, Crown Vic Skyliner, 8-Pass Country Sedan, & Country Squire
plus required Fordomatic Dr $178.20 = $278.20 Total (7.10 x 15" tires incld)
(not avail Mainline, Customline, or Courier)
8 cyl 90°-V 2 overhead-valve (intake 1.78," exh 1.51") solid valve lifters Y-Block
Hp 215 @ 4600 rpm Torque 317 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ OD (Thunderbird only)
Hp 225 @ 4600 rpm Torque 324 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 9.0 to 1 Comp 165 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 312 Bore 3.80" x Stroke 3.44" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Fan 4-blade 18.5" dia Exhaust dual Fuel prem
Block ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD) or ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps ECZ
Bore max allow oversize bore 0.040" + 3.80" = 3.84" bore = 319 CID
V-8 Tuneup Specs (here)
Hp 215 @ 4600 rpm Torque 317 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ OD (Thunderbird only)
Hp 225 @ 4600 rpm Torque 324 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 9.0 to 1 Comp 165 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 312 Bore 3.80" x Stroke 3.44" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Generator low cut-in 30-amp Fan 4-blade 18.5" dia Exhaust dual Fuel prem
Block ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD) or ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps ECZ
Bore max allow oversize bore 0.040" + 3.80" = 3.84" bore = 319 CID


Special Police Y-8 292-cid 200-hp (202-hp w/ Fordomatic Dr) M-code, all drives
opt Police & Emerg stn wagon $50 [est] over std Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200/202-hp M-code
opt Police & Emerg Mainline & Customline $100 [est] over std Ford V-8 272-cid 173/176-hp U-code
(not avail Fairlane, not offered to public)
8 cyl 90°-V 2 overhead-valve (intake 1.78," exh 1.51") solid valve lifters Y-Block
Hp 200 @ 4600 rpm Torque 285 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 202 @ 4600 rpm Torque 289 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 292 Bore 3.75" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Exhaust dual (stn wagon)
Block ECK-6015 or EDB-6015-A (Dearborn foundry), ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads EDB-6090-B or ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD), ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.75" bore = 3.79" bore = 298 CID
SPECIAL EQUIP INCLDHp 200 @ 4600 rpm Torque 285 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 202 @ 4600 rpm Torque 289 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 292 Bore 3.75" x Stroke 3.30" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Exhaust dual (stn wagon)
Block ECK-6015 or EDB-6015-A (Dearborn foundry), ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads EDB-6090-B or ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD), ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps EBU
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.75" bore = 3.79" bore = 298 CID
• 4-blade 18.5" dia fan • dual exhaust (Mainline & Customline) • reg fuel use
V-8 Tuneup Specs (here)


(Police) Interceptor Y-8 312-cid 210-hp (215-hp w/ Fordomatic Dr) P-code, all drives
mid model-year
opt Police & Emerg stn wagon $200 [est] over std Thunderbird V-8 292-cid 200/202-hp M-code
opt Police & Emerg Mainline & Customline $250 [est] over std Ford V-8 272-cid 173/176-hp U-code
(not offered to public)
8 cyl 90°-V 2 overhead-valve (int 1.78," exh 1.51") solid valve lifters Y-Block
Hp 210 @ 4600 rpm Torque 312 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 215 @ 4600 rpm Torque 317 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 312 Bore 3.80" x Stroke 3.44" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Fan 3-blade 18" high-speed Exhaust dual (stn wagon)
Block ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD) or ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps ECZ
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.80" bore = 3.84" bore = 319 CID
SPECIAL EQUIP INCLDHp 210 @ 4600 rpm Torque 312 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.0 to 1 Comp 155 psi w/ Conv Dr or OD
Hp 215 @ 4600 rpm Torque 317 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm CR 8.4 to 1 Comp 160 psi w/ Fordomatic Dr
CID 312 Bore 3.80" x Stroke 3.44" Main Bearings 5 Counterweights 8
Carb Double Twin-Jet (4-bbl) Holley 4000, auto choke
Air Cleaner large low-restriction oil-bath
Fan 3-blade 18" high-speed Exhaust dual (stn wagon)
Block ECZ-6015-A or ECZ-6015-B Block Casting Nos.
Heads ECZ-6090-B (Conv Dr & OD) or ECZ-6090-C (Fordomatic Dr) Head Casting Nos.
Main Bearing Caps ECZ
Bore max allow oversize 0.040" + 3.80" bore = 3.84" bore = 319 CID
• heavy-duty rad w/ large 20 qt US coolant capacity (21 qt US w/ heater)
• extra-cooling high-speed fan • diaphragm-type mech fuel pump w/ vacuum-booster for wipers
• heavy-duty 11" clutch (Conv Dr & OD) • generator low cut-in 40-amp
• Fordomatic Dr large fluid capacity 10.25 qt US • reg fuel use
MAINLINE & CUSTONLINE
• heavy-duty front coil & rear leaf springs • special brake linings • dual exhaust
• rear gear rations (to 1) Conv Dr 3.73, Overdrive 3.92, & Fordomatic Dr 3.54 (opt 3.31)
V-8 Tuneup Specs (here)
• extra-cooling high-speed fan • diaphragm-type mech fuel pump w/ vacuum-booster for wipers
• heavy-duty 11" clutch (Conv Dr & OD) • generator low cut-in 40-amp
• Fordomatic Dr large fluid capacity 10.25 qt US • reg fuel use
MAINLINE & CUSTONLINE
• heavy-duty front coil & rear leaf springs • special brake linings • dual exhaust
• rear gear rations (to 1) Conv Dr 3.73, Overdrive 3.92, & Fordomatic Dr 3.54 (opt 3.31)


"312 CUBIC INCH HIGH POWER ENGINE KIT" 260-hp late model-year
Commonly called "Race Kit," or incorrectly "Power Pack"
Released by Production Service Letter P-311a, Jul 6, 1956 (vehicle production-year ended Aug 24, 1956)
Special-order high-performance parts to modify the V-8 312-cid eng for police, NASCAR, Thunderbird, & public
210/215/225-hp to 260-hp 317/324 lb-ft torque to 344 lb-ft torque
Production 103 kits supplied in wooden crates not factory installed

1956 Ford #B6A-9000-B K3 (Conv Dr or Overdrive) (not incld '55-'57 Thunderbird valve covers in photo)
Price $315 Jul 6, 1956; surplus reduced to $100 Feb 4, 1957, as is, subject to prior sale
1956 Ford Thunderbird #B6A-9000-B K3 plus Ford #B6A-9000-B K4 (both required)
Price [not found by editor]
Kits info is from the following sources, with thanks, assumed accurate but not guaranteed:
Classic Thunderbird Club International Gil Baumgartner, Authenticity Chairman, CTCI
Porthole Authority Y-Blocks Forever (Forum) The Ford Barn (Forum)
Ford Trucks (Forum) Jalopy Journal (Forum)
Commonly called "Race Kit," or incorrectly "Power Pack"
Released by Production Service Letter P-311a, Jul 6, 1956 (vehicle production-year ended Aug 24, 1956)
Special-order high-performance parts to modify the V-8 312-cid eng for police, NASCAR, Thunderbird, & public
210/215/225-hp to 260-hp 317/324 lb-ft torque to 344 lb-ft torque
Production 103 kits supplied in wooden crates not factory installed

1956 Ford #B6A-9000-B K3 (Conv Dr or Overdrive) (not incld '55-'57 Thunderbird valve covers in photo)
Price $315 Jul 6, 1956; surplus reduced to $100 Feb 4, 1957, as is, subject to prior sale
• 2 unique Holley 4000 (4-bbl) Carburetors, #R-1268
• 1 2x4 aluminum Intake Manifold EDB-9425-C
• 2 high-compression Cylinder Heads ECZ-C, (milled 0.060")
• 1 special-grind Camshaft EDB-6250-B, part #B6A-6250-E, stamped "E,"
Cam lobe lift intake & exhaust 0.273"
Intake opens 22° BTDC @ 0.015" on exhaust stroke (piston moves upward)
Intake closes 58° ABDC @ 0.015" on compression stroke (piston moves upward)
Exhaust opens 58° BBDC @ 0.015" on power/combustion stroke (piston forced downward)
Exhaust closes 14° ATDC @ 0.015" on intake stroke (piston moves downward)
Intake opens 18° ATDC @ 0.100"
Intake closes 18° ABDC @ 0.100"
Exhaust opens 26° BBDC @ 0.100"
Exhaust closes 26° BTDC @ 0.100"
(BTDC = Before Top Dead Center, ABDC = After Bottom Dead Center, BBDC = Before Bottom Dead Center, ATDC = After Top Dead Center. Camshaft rotates once for every two rotations of the crankshaft)
• unique Valve Springs & Lifters
• 2 Auto Choke Hot Air Tube Systems
• 1 Distributor Re-curve Kit
• 1 large round red Air Cleaner, covers both carbs, 2 studs & wingnuts, right side decal
w/ "PUROLATOR DRY TYPE Micronic AIR FILTER" script
• 1 large round Purolator Dry Type Micronic Air Filter
• Linkages, Brackets, Lines, Hardware, & Gaskets
• Instructions
• 1 2x4 aluminum Intake Manifold EDB-9425-C
• 2 high-compression Cylinder Heads ECZ-C, (milled 0.060")
• 1 special-grind Camshaft EDB-6250-B, part #B6A-6250-E, stamped "E,"
Cam lobe lift intake & exhaust 0.273"
Intake opens 22° BTDC @ 0.015" on exhaust stroke (piston moves upward)
Intake closes 58° ABDC @ 0.015" on compression stroke (piston moves upward)
Exhaust opens 58° BBDC @ 0.015" on power/combustion stroke (piston forced downward)
Exhaust closes 14° ATDC @ 0.015" on intake stroke (piston moves downward)
Intake opens 18° ATDC @ 0.100"
Intake closes 18° ABDC @ 0.100"
Exhaust opens 26° BBDC @ 0.100"
Exhaust closes 26° BTDC @ 0.100"
(BTDC = Before Top Dead Center, ABDC = After Bottom Dead Center, BBDC = Before Bottom Dead Center, ATDC = After Top Dead Center. Camshaft rotates once for every two rotations of the crankshaft)
• unique Valve Springs & Lifters
• 2 Auto Choke Hot Air Tube Systems
• 1 Distributor Re-curve Kit
• 1 large round red Air Cleaner, covers both carbs, 2 studs & wingnuts, right side decal
w/ "PUROLATOR DRY TYPE Micronic AIR FILTER" script
• 1 large round Purolator Dry Type Micronic Air Filter
• Linkages, Brackets, Lines, Hardware, & Gaskets
• Instructions


Price [not found by editor]
• 1 Shaft Assembly AH-9725-F
• 1 Hanger Assembly AH-99830-C
• 1 oval Argent (Silver) color Air Cleaner EDB-9600-B, part #B6A-9600-H
covers both carbs, 2 studs & wingnuts, painted finish (chrome finish was not produced by Ford)
• 1 oval Air Filter Ford EXP, dry-type
• 1 Hanger Assembly AH-99830-C
• 1 oval Argent (Silver) color Air Cleaner EDB-9600-B, part #B6A-9600-H
covers both carbs, 2 studs & wingnuts, painted finish (chrome finish was not produced by Ford)
• 1 oval Air Filter Ford EXP, dry-type
Kits info is from the following sources, with thanks, assumed accurate but not guaranteed:
Classic Thunderbird Club International Gil Baumgartner, Authenticity Chairman, CTCI
Porthole Authority Y-Blocks Forever (Forum) The Ford Barn (Forum)
Ford Trucks (Forum) Jalopy Journal (Forum)
Curtis Turner NASCAR #26 & #99 w/ "312 CUBIC INCH HIGH POWER ENGINE KIT" 260-hp


1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Clutches
(w/ Conventional Dr & Overdrive transmissions)

• 9-1/2-inch w/ Ford I-6
• 10-inch w/ Ford V-8, Thunderbird V-8, Thunderbird Special V-8, or Special Police Y-8
• 11-inch w/ Ford I-6 or Ford V-8 & "Standard Taxi Package" or "Deluxe Taxi Package" (Taxi models only)
• 11-inch w/ (Police) Interceptor Y-8 (Police & Emerg models only, & all Thunderbird)
Pedal free-travel 1-1/8" to 1-3/8"
"The Ford clutch for '56 is a semi-centrifugal type of single, dry-plate, cushion-disc construction. It has high torque-transmitting capacity, with pre-lubericated, sealed, ball-type throw-out bearing and oil impregnated, sintered bronze bushing for a pilot bearing." - All the Facts About The '56 Ford
1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Transmissions

● Conventional Drive (manual 3-speed)
Not avail in Fairlane Fordor Victoria
Std, all other models
1st, 2nd (synchro), 3rd (synchro), & Reverse
All-helical gears, forged bronze synchronizers
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern

● Overdrive (manual 3-speed w/ auto planetary 4th-spd Overdrive)
Not avail in Fairlane Fordor Victoria
Opt, all other models
1st, 2nd (synchro), 3rd (synchro), auto 4th gear (30% lower eng rpm than 3rd), & Reverse
Gear selector on steering column, "H" pattern
Overdrive push/pull T-handle below instrument panel
Lock-in (engage OD) push in T-handle when car is stopped or at any speed & let-up throttle pedal when above 27-28 mph, (auto disengage & downshift to 3rd below 21-22 mph)
Kick-down (to 3rd, for hill climbing or passing) floor throttle pedal, (let-up pedal to auto return to OD)
Lock-out (disengage OD) pull out T-handle when car is stopped or in "kick down (3rd) operation
Overdrive push/pull T-handle below instrument panel
Lock-in (engage OD) push in T-handle when car is stopped or at any speed & let-up throttle pedal when above 27-28 mph, (auto disengage & downshift to 3rd below 21-22 mph)
Kick-down (to 3rd, for hill climbing or passing) floor throttle pedal, (let-up pedal to auto return to OD)
Lock-out (disengage OD) pull out T-handle when car is stopped or in "kick down (3rd) operation


● Speed-Trigger Fordomatic Drive (automatic 3-speed)
Std, Fairlane Fordor Victoria
Opt, all other models
Designed by Warner Gear Division, Borg Warner Corporation
Automatic planetary gear train, single-stage 3-element hydraulic-mechanical Torque Converter—oil cushion, no mechanical linkage between engine & drive train, no vacuum or electrical connections, cast iron case
SMALL CASE, steel impeller
• '55-57 I-6-1V 223-cid • '55 V-8-2V & 4V 272-cid • '56-57 V-8-2V 272-cid
• '56 V-8-4V 292-cid • '56-57 V-8-4V 312-cid (not Ford [Police] Interceptor, Stn Wgn, T-Bird)
MEDIUM CASE
• '55 V-8-4V 292-cid (steel impeller)
• '56 V-8-4V 312-cid (Ford [Police] Interceptor, Stn Wgn, T-Bird, steel or alum impeller)
Low (1st), Intermediate (2nd, Passing Gear), High (3rd), & Reverse
5-Possition Safety-Sequence Selector w/ illuminated indicator dial on steering column
P (Park)
R (Reverse)
N (Neutral) car can be towed up to 12 miles at under 40 mph, otherwise with rear wheels raised
• start engine
DR (Drive)
• start-out in 2nd & auto upshift to 3rd (typical driving)
• start-out at full-throttle in 1st (Speed-Trigger) & auto up-shifts to 2nd (30 mph) & 3rd (65 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to Passing Gear (2nd) (below 65-68 mph & above 17-23 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to 1st (below 17-23 mph)
LO (Low)
• start-out in 1st & hold (up to 35 mph), auto up-shifts to 2nd & 3rd if/when DR selected
• downshift to 2nd & hold (below 60 mph & above 17-23 mph - engine braking)
• downshift to 1st & hold (below 17-23 mph - engine braking)
Adjust bands & change fluid every 15,000 miles—original Type A, modern DEXTRON® IIIP (Park)
R (Reverse)
N (Neutral) car can be towed up to 12 miles at under 40 mph, otherwise with rear wheels raised
• start engine
DR (Drive)
• start-out in 2nd & auto upshift to 3rd (typical driving)
• start-out at full-throttle in 1st (Speed-Trigger) & auto up-shifts to 2nd (30 mph) & 3rd (65 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to Passing Gear (2nd) (below 65-68 mph & above 17-23 mph)
• full-throttle kick-down to 1st (below 17-23 mph)
LO (Low)
• start-out in 1st & hold (up to 35 mph), auto up-shifts to 2nd & 3rd if/when DR selected
• downshift to 2nd & hold (below 60 mph & above 17-23 mph - engine braking)
• downshift to 1st & hold (below 17-23 mph - engine braking)
Fluid Capacity 9.25 qt (I-6), 9.75 qt (V-8), 10.25 qt US (Police Interceptor Y-8)
Operation, "Shifting Gears" Owner's Manual Pages 12-15 (here)
Specs & Parts, AutoTran Vintage Automatic Transmission (here)
1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Rear Axle Ratios (to 1)
Semi-floating type w/ hypoid gears
Sedans & Coupes: pressed steel banjo-type housing
Station Wagons: composite housing

Mainline & Customline (incld Taxi) & Fairlane Ford I-6
• Std Conv Dr - 3:89 (opt 4.11) (incld)
• Opt Overdrive - 4.11 (opt 3.89)
• Opt Fordomatic Dr - 3.22 (opt 3.56)
Mainline & Customline (incld Taxi) Ford V-8 & Thunderbird V-8 &
Fairlane (except Fordor Victoria) Thunderbird V-8 & Thunderbird Special V-8
• Std Conv Dr - 3:78 (opt 3.89) (incld)
• Opt Overdrive - 3.89 (opt 3.78)
• Opt Fordomatic Dr - 3.22 (opt 3.56)*
*opt 3.56 not avail w/ opt Thunderbird Special V-8
Fairlane Fordor Victoria Thunderbird V-8 & Thunderbird Special V-8
• Fordomatic Dr (only) - 3.22 (opt 3.56)*
*opt 3.56 not avail w/ opt Thunderbird Special V-8
Station Wagon & Courier (Sedan Delivery) Ford I-6 & Thunderbird V-8
• Std conv Dr - 4.09 (opt 4.27) (incld)
• Opt Overdrive - 4.27 (opt none)
• Opt Fordomatic Dr - 3.54 (opt none)
Station Wagon Thunderbird Special V-8
• Opt Fordomatic Dr (only) - 3.54 (opt none)
Police & Emergency Rear Axle Ratios (here)
1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Rims





Diameter 15 in Width 5 in (between flanges) Center Hole 2.840 in
Bolt Pattern 5 lug x 4.5 in (114.3 mm) (between center-point of one lug & far outside edge of an opposite lug)
Backspace 3 in (between hub mounting surface & inside edge outermost plain)
Offset 0 in (between hub mounting surface & centerline—positive, negative, or zero)
Material pressed steel (an iron & carbon alloy), outer rim welded to center Weight 19.95 lb
Finish baked on synthetic enamel paint, (lower) body color Part No. 1015-U-15x5
1956 Ford Car & Station Wagon Tires





Original Suggested Retail Prices - City of Buffalo, Ford Buffalo Sales District
Mainline & Customline
Ford 1-6, Ford V-8, & Thunderbird V-8 – all drives
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
Customline Victoria
Ford I-6, Ford V-8, & Thunderbird V-8 – Conv Dr or Overdrive
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
Ford V-8 & Thunderbird V-8 – Fordomatic Dr
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $40
Fairlane Club Sedan & Town Sedan
Ford I-6 & Thunderbird V-8 – all drives
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
Thunderbird Special V-8 – Fordomatic Dr
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $40
Fairlane Victoria, Crown Victoria, Crown Victoria Skyliner, & Sunliner
Ford I-6 – all drives
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
Thunderbird V-8 – Conv Dr or Overdrive
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
Thunderbird V-8 & Thunderbird Special V-8 – Fordomatic Dr
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $40
Fairlane Fordor Victoria
Thunderbird V-8 & Thunderbird Special V-8 – Fordomatic Dr (only)
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $40
Ranch Wagon (2 dr, 6 pass), Custom Ranch Wagon (2 dr, 6 pass),
Parklane (2 dr, 6 pass), & 6-Passenger Country Sedan (4 dr, 6 pass)
Ford I-6 & Thunderbird V-8 – all drives
• Std 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 6.70 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $35
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless $20
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $50
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply BSW tubeless $55
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply WSW tubeless $90
Thunderbird Special V-8 – Fordomatic Dr
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $50
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply BSW tubeless $55
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply WSW tubeless $90
8-Passenger Country Sedan (4 dr, 8 pass) & Country Squire (4 dr, 8 pass)
Ford I-6, Thunderbird V-8, & Thunderbird Special V-8 – all drives
• Std 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply BSW tubeless (incld)
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 4-ply WSW tubeless $40
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply BSW tubeless $40
• Opt 7.10 x 15 bias 6-ply WSW tubeless $75
Taxi Tires (here) Police & Emerg Tires (here) Courier Tires (here)
NOTE Opt SelectAire Conditioner requires V-8 eng, Fordomatic Dr, & 7.10 x 15" tires, all
Firestone Deluxe Champion bias 4-ply BSW tubeless specs (other brands' specs may vary)
6.70 x 15" 15" x 5" rim, 28.58" dia, 7.01" sec, 4.50" tread, 1,450 lb max load @ 32 psi, (opt 2.6875" wide white sidewall),
• Modern Metric Radial 195R x 15" (white sidewall widths of 2-1/2 to 2-11/16" are appropriate)
• Cars: 26 psi front, 23 psi rear Stn Wagons: 26 psi front & rear Couriers: 23 psi front, 26 psi rear
7.10 x 15" 15" x 5" rim, 28.88" dia, 7.70" sec, 4.50" tread, 1,550 lb max load @ 32 psi, (opt 2.75" wide white sidewall),
• Modern Metric Radial 205R x 15" (white sidewall widths of 2-1/2 to 2-11/16" are appropriate)
• Cars: 26 psi front, 23 psi rear Stn Wagons & Couriers: 26 psi front & rear (6-ply 25 psi front, 30 psi rear)