Transmission swap

[John Pasinski]

Hi; Tell me if I'm pipe dreaming. I have an '81 Silverado 1/2 ton 2 w/d. w/ an auto trans. I understand that drive train parts from '73--'87 will fit this model. I have clutch, flywheel, bell crank, bell housing, pedal assy. and muncie 4 speed from a '73 gathered and cleaned up almost ready to go. I also have the tunnel cover (I'll have to cut out for the shifter). I'll buy the fork, throw-out, pilot bearings and boots new through NAPA. My questions: I can't see where the clutch rod will go thougth the firewall! Since this was auto from the factory, do I have to remove some sort of plate (that I don't yet see)? I also see (2) holes on the frame rail where it looks like the bell crank bracket should be attached. Although that doesn't look like it will match up w/ the clutch rod. Good thing I didn't start this job till I looked at the firewall. Can this be accomplished? Thanks..........

[old Rusty C10]

on my 76 there was an oval shaped hole with a boot that was what the clutch linkage went through when i changed cabs to an 81-87 cab which had been automatic i had to make the hole if memory serves me correct you can see the outline of it tho its been three years since i scrapped the project and i kinda forget
im not sure of differences between the clutch and linkage but mine was a three on the tree i dont think there was any difference but i dont know for sure

[79gmcsierragrande]

My 79 came stock with a 4speed Muncie. Here are some pictures of where it goes though the fire wall. Let me know if you need more pics or info.



I’m glad to see someone converting to stick, you always see it the other way.

[John Pasinski]

WOW! Thanks for the photos. They help a lot. I see that the rod actually goes through the floor to the left and below the steer column. I don't think there's a plate or area w/ a knockout for the rod on my truck. I may have cut open a spot. YIKES!