Transmission Crossmember for Turbo 350 in 55 3600

[Jonathans55]

Well ordering the parts for my build. Which will begin in a little under a month. I will keep all of you updated on the bumps and owies along the way. This will be my first. More of a swap than a build. I will be replacing the entire wiring harness as well and will be sure to document most everything. HERE is my question. For anyone that has completed a 350 engine, 350 transmission swap on a tri five i will ask this..... Will the 350 bolt up to my existing frame holes or will i need to drill new ones? OR will i need to completely replace the crossmember? IF i have to completely replace the crossmember, will i need a dropped one? Again first swap for me, and if you havent followed my earlier posts a novice in training. You all are my trainers lol. So 350, th350 swap, crossmember, motor mounts, transmission mounts on existing crossmember. Pass me your knowledge.

[Rude Dude]

here is what you will need

http://www.classicparts.com/1947-59-.../#.VBiaCct0xdg

http://www.classicparts.com/1941-59-.../#.VBialct0xdg

[Apachemike]

They sell this as a set for a few dollars less

[Jonathans55]

this is the only part that makes me nervous. welding those on in the right place. Thats one thing ill leave to the professionals.

[OrrieG]

See if you can find a 73-80 ish truck auto crossmember. That is what I used, it came with the drive train. Frame width is the same as TF trucks.

[Jonathans55]

So I received a message on here that stated I didn't need new front cross members. simply take out the tower mounts on the front and put in the standard 350 mount and she'd mesh right up. Is that accurate?

[OrrieG]

I am confused I was answering the Turbo 350 transmission crossmember question. Engine you can go with original type front mounts but it affects your accessory mounting because GM kept the bosses and used them for accessories. Or you can go with side mounts that use a saddle type mount or ones that bolt/weld to the frame. Some guys remove the original rear bell housing mount cross member, probably ok on a street driven truck, but that is what adds lateral stiffness between the frame at the front spring rear hangers. Without that cross member the engine and cab mounts take all the stress as the springs flex. I kept mine, makes for interesting install and you need to fab a two piece converter dust cover.