59 apache floor shift

[Gill 58 apache]

i have a customer who recently purchased two 59's for parts. One has a floor shift trans with a wood shift knob and chrome chevy emblem insert. a friend of mine said he had never seen one, and was wondering if it was an option in 59 since i have not seen one either. any info on what it could be and if it is in fact original would be appreciated. it is a long wheel base with a 6 cylinder.

[OrrieG]

After market, stock was black hard plastic with matte finish. If you need a replacement look on Ebay for tractor knobs. They look the same, fit and cost like $7 vs $25 for truck repops. I go two transfer case shifter knobs for $8 by watching for a deal.

[_Ogre]

the 1/2 ton trucks came with column shift 3 speeds, as well as floor shift 4 speeds with granny gear
3/4 ton and up had the 4 speed granny type trans with the parking brake lever next to the shifter
same gears; just the added granny first gear on the 4 speed for stump pulling power

[Gill 58 apache]

So although the shift knob is not original would you guys suggest keeping the trans in the truck, or going automatic. if kept in the truck what v8 engines would bolt up to it if any?

[OrrieG]

Transmission will bolt up to most GM v8 bell housings. The original v8 bell housing is cast iron with mounts on the bottom corners to mount to the cross member, the transmission hangs off the back. The bell housing engine side will have the SBC block holes. Like Ogre said the SM430 his a big heavy four speed with a very low first gear, you usually take off in second. It also has a PTO take off for winch and hydraulic pump drives. They a almost indestructible, 4th gear is 1:1 ratio.

How are you going to use the truck? Around town cruiser or long distance cruise highway flyer? 4/5/6 speed manual for fun factor, or OD auto?? Occasional work truck or off road camping and fishing?? Lots of options depending on how you want to use it.