|
|
Post by neilenelson on Oct 28, 2008 11:19:45 GMT -7
Hello all - I have a 66 Fleetside with the stock 250 ci motor and 3-speed manual transmission. I would like to install an automatic transmission if possible. Does anyone have experience with this swap and can give me suggestions or advice. Thank you.
|
|
|
|
Post by Scooter3 on Oct 28, 2008 13:23:59 GMT -7
Well, you will probably have to move the trans cross member in the frame to meet with the rear mount on the trans. You will also probably have to get a different driveshaft because most cases an automatic transmission is a different length then a manual.
Then because what Im guess is a 3 on the tree, if you still want a column shift truck, which Im also assuming you do, you will have to swap the manual column for an automatic column. You need to remember to get the shift linkages for whatever column you get out of w/e vehical be it a truck like this or a later model and depending on that they may have to be modified. Ofcourse then you can get rid of all your clutch pedal and all the stuff that goes along with it.
Ive done it on my truck but, I put a 283 in with it, I cant remember if I moved the cross memeber forward or back. I know it wasnt much like 3-4 inches at the most. I had to get a new driveshaft because the truck I got the motor out of was a long wheel base and mine is short. I also had to put the auto column out of the truck I got the motor out of. It was a 66 so all the linkages and stuff swapped out.
|
|
|
|
Post by neilenelson on Oct 29, 2008 6:56:05 GMT -7
Thank you - My current plan is to keep the stock motor but that could change.
|
|
|
|
Post by lowrod64 on Nov 12, 2008 19:52:00 GMT -7
no need to swap columns just get an aftermarket floor shifter i bought a pro ratchet shifter from b&m it comes with a linkage cable and brackets. www.jegs.com/p/B&M/745771/10002/-1and early classic sells an aftermarket automatic trans crossmember. look under crossmembers earlyclassic.com/catalog.aspxAutomatic Transmission Crossmembers (Each) Designed to replace the factory automatic transmission crossmember for additional clearance or add a automatic to your factory manual transmission 63-72 GM truck. This crossmember is a direct replacement for a turbo 350 or 400, and will also work with a 700r4, 4l60, 4l80, and others, some drilling required. this crossmember works well with our Extreme Drop Crossmember so you can run the exhaust between the frame rails instead of hanging below . Available in raw or satin black powdercoated finish. Options: |
|
|
|
Post by Scooter3 on Nov 12, 2008 21:05:50 GMT -7
I would say you can get a used column cheaper then that shifter and its probably an easier install and would keep it looking more original and less like drag racer.
|
|
|
|
Post by lowrod64 on Nov 13, 2008 9:49:20 GMT -7
I would say you can get a used column cheaper then that shifter and its probably an easier install and would keep it looking more original and less like drag racer. true, i forgot to add that i have a built th400 from hughes transmissions with a 2400 stall good for 600 hp.( meaning that i dont want to blow my trans when shifting under hard acceleration ) and a 327 that likes to rev kinda high. |
|
|
|
Post by 3onthetree on Nov 17, 2008 0:12:46 GMT -7
My truck's runnin a 250, that's a dang good motor. Just curious, do you not know how to drive a stickshift? There are many benefits to havin a stick you know. Sounds cooler, keeps you interactive so you don't doze off goin 90 down the interstate, gives you better mileage, you can accelerate faster, and you know as well as i that these trucks weigh a lot ( I believe my '65 C10 is 6,000 lbs. curb weight) and their brake aren't superb, downshifting can keep you from a nasty call from your insurance company because what should have been a slight fender bender turned into you totaling someones car because i'm sure you also know these trucks are made of solid steel, none of that modern fiberglass crap. I'm not hating on you or anything, seriously if you really want an auto go for it and it'd still be cool, just my two cents.
|
|
dward
New Member
Posts: 10
|
Post by dward on Nov 21, 2008 11:08:38 GMT -7
3nothetree, you aren't shifting that 3 on the tree at 90 are you?  I agree with everything else though. Plus I don't like Chevy autos. |
|
|
|
Post by jewing3886 on Nov 23, 2008 20:18:44 GMT -7
I put a turbo 350 in place of the 3 speed. You have to cut out the old cross member. Install a auto tran cross member I used a 72 c10. An auto radiator,drive shaft,column. It is best to have a donor truck.
|
|
I agree with everything else though. Plus I don't like Chevy autos.