1954 Chevy 3100 Transmission Swap

Discussion in '1947-1954' started by RC2017, Oct 7, 2024.

  1. RC2017

    RC2017 Member

    Joined:
    Oct 7, 2024
    Messages:
    3
    Hello All,
    I am looking to swap out my standard 4 speed transmission to a automatic, truck has a 235 inline 6.
    I am new to this and could use all the recommendations and advise I can get. Its my wife's Sunday drive around town truck. Happy wife Happy life.
    Thanks in advance
    Russ
     
    Last edited: Oct 9, 2024
  2. e015475

    e015475 Member

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2014
    Messages:
    251
    Location:
    Show Low AZ
    235 V6? Inline 6 maybe?
     
    vwnate1 likes this.
  3. RC2017

    RC2017 Member

    Joined:
    Oct 7, 2024
    Messages:
    3
    yes inline 6
     
    vwnate1 likes this.
  4. e015475

    e015475 Member

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2014
    Messages:
    251
    Location:
    Show Low AZ
    AFAIK the only automatic that will bolt up to the 235 is a 2 speed power glide. I doubt you'd be very happy with this 1950s technology. It will over-rev in first gear and bog when it hits second.

    I'd start looking for an adapter for a 350 or 700R4 that fits the 235 six. You'll likely have to build your own crossmember as this isn't a conversion that's often done. I'd imagine a shorter driveshaft is required but that would be pretty easy - you just have to measure and give them your cc

    A Lokar shifter that looks like a stock floor mounted shift lever but for an automatic would probably work for a gear selector.

    For safety, you'll need to wire in a neutral safety switch to prevent the engine from starting in gear and pushing your truck through the garage wall - ask me how I know. The Lokar shifter should come with this switch, but you'll have to wire it up.

    You'll need to modify your throttle linkage to incorporate a kick-down cable, especially with a six cylinder

    Finally, if you intend to use the stock speedometer, you'll need to get a new custom cable that fits the auto trans. You'll probably have to change the speedometer drive gear in the trans to get the speedometer reading correctly
     
    52wasp, RC2017 and vwnate1 like this.
  5. vwnate1

    vwnate1 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 1, 2000
    Messages:
    11,666
    Location:
    AMERICA !
    If you google it you should find some articles about fitting a Xhevy S10 manual tranny, I don't remember the details but the input shafts tend to have grooves that indicate the top gear ratio .

    Perhaps if you search this forum for s10 s-10 etc. tranny you'll find an older detailed thread .
     
    RC2017 likes this.
  6. Bill Hanlon

    Bill Hanlon Member

    Joined:
    Jun 4, 2002
    Messages:
    2,744
    Location:
    Fredericksburg TX
    RC2017 likes this.
  7. e015475

    e015475 Member

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2014
    Messages:
    251
    Location:
    Show Low AZ
  8. Robs52trk

    Robs52trk Member

    Joined:
    Nov 19, 2021
    Messages:
    30
    Did Steve retire? He built my p/s bracket for my 235 great guy hopefully he’s doing well
     
  9. Robs52trk

    Robs52trk Member

    Joined:
    Nov 19, 2021
    Messages:
    30
    Papa gee sells transmission adapters look him up on social media or in box me I can send you his number if interested
     
  10. Bill Hanlon

    Bill Hanlon Member

    Joined:
    Jun 4, 2002
    Messages:
    2,744
    Location:
    Fredericksburg TX
    I think so. I sent his info to a friend of mine and he was unable to contact Buffalo.
     
  11. Robs52trk

    Robs52trk Member

    Joined:
    Nov 19, 2021
    Messages:
    30
    Steve told me he never advertised or no website all word of mouth
    And the only reason he had a cell phone was because his sister said he never answered his shop phone
     
  12. RC2017

    RC2017 Member

    Joined:
    Oct 7, 2024
    Messages:
    3
  13. vwnate1

    vwnate1 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 1, 2000
    Messages:
    11,666
    Location:
    AMERICA !
    YIKES ! .

    Kinda expensive that .

    I have a rebuilt TH350C (automatic overdrive) transmission in the shipping box I bought for my '69 C/10, it's been sitting for ten years but will be very affordable of anyone wants it .

    L.A. area .
     
  14. Robs52trk

    Robs52trk Member

    Joined:
    Nov 19, 2021
    Messages:
    30
    On transmission options is a 3 speed with overdrive same size and bolt pattern as a stock 3 speed transmission same clutch as well just open drive on mine I used a 90s Chevy caprice drive shaft no cutting fit perfect
     
    vwnate1 likes this.

Share This Page