Best auto trans 62 235?

[tj62]

Hi all, I have 62 3 speed on the column, just moved to east TN and with the hills out here I'd like to change to an automatic. What's the easiest/least involved auto transmission swap? I don't have a shop or much of a garage for welding and the like. I saw a few ideas with adapter plates etc but looks like whatever I do, I'll have to get/make a new crossmember support?

[Palf70Step]

Turbo350. No overdrive, but reliable and super easy switchover.

[tj62]

Any kind of adapter plates or trans supports, diff bell housing etc? I'll look in ty trans section for info

[Jake1971]

Originally Posted by Palf70Step

Turbo350. No overdrive, but reliable and super easy switchover.

I agree.
If you install a short tail shaft TH350, you will need to remove the factory crossmember under the bell housing and utilize a crossmember for the automatic shown in this thread. Thanks to board member t korinek for the thread link.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=600648
Your driveshaft should remain the same as the 3OTT yoke should be plug and play into the TH350. Measure the overall length on both transmissions including bellhousings to verify that they are the same.. You must use a transmission cooler whether it is and aftermarket add-on or built into the radiator, I use both to optimize cooling. Note that you must change your flywheel to a flexplate which uses shorter bolts into the crankshaft. If your starter bolts into the 3OTT bellhousing will need to change to a starter with vertical bolts that go into the engine block. Exhaust, E-brake cables are not affected. You will need to either change your column to Automatic or (ugh) cut a hole in your floor for a floor shifter. If anyone knows of anything I missed please post.

[tj62]

Wow great info. Thanks so very much. Just to clarify, I've read on other sites people recommending a 700r4 or 400-something. The th350 is simplest and sufficient for cruising around and not super high speeds? No rear end changes needed?

Thanks so much again!!

[Palf70Step]

You'll need a transmission cross member to replace the bell housing one. I am not positive on if you need an adapter or not. I don't think you do, but not 100% sure about the 235 six.

[NEWFISHER]

Check out the stovebolt website..tons of conversion info on the 235's. Yes you will need an adapter. Buffalo enterprises in Arlington WA. It also allows for the newer style starter too. Crossmember from Speedway is $50 and adjustable( you have to drill 4 holes) and lokar makes a shift rod to adapt the 350 to an auto truck column. Yes on external trans cooler. Hayden makes a good one. Once you have all the pieces its a weekend job on jackstands.

[tj62]

You guys are amazing! Didn't see a specific write up in the stickies on this. So this is amazing!

[Jake1971]

Originally Posted by tj62

You guys are amazing! Didn't see a specific write up in the stickies on this. So this is amazing!

I requested Stickie status for this thread.

[tj62]

Looking at the speedway website, which crossmember were you talking about for that price? In that range, I'm just seeing some for 40s-50s models vehicles.

[HumphreyMurdoch]

Originally Posted by tj62

Looking at the speedway website, which crossmember were you talking about for that price? In that range, I'm just seeing some for 40s-50s models vehicles.

The trans crossmembers from speedway are universal, there are several drops available for exhaust/ground clearance.

Straight:

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Straig...ount,3279.html

2" drop

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Tubula...Drop,4219.html

4" drop

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Tubula...Drop,4325.html

They also have a 6 and 8 inch drop, also.