Newbie, just got a 58 Apache

[TX58]

Just bought a 1958 Apache and can't wait to get working on it. It's a real V8 ,big window, short stepside, truck. Currently has a newer ('61) 283 V8 in it with original 3 on he tree. Want to put a automatic in it soon, will a Powerglide work? Would like to keep shifter on the column so I know I will need to get one that will work. Any other tips out there? You guys have some nice trucks here
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[meter swinger]

Originally Posted by TX58

Just bought a 1958 Apache and can't wait to get working on it. It's a real V8 ,big window, short stepside, truck. Currently has a newer ('61) 283 V8 in it with original 3 on he tree. Want to put a automatic in it soon, will a Powerglide work? Would like to keep shifter on the column so I know I will need to get one that will work. Any other tips out there? You guys have some nice trucks here
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Welcome to the site. And congratulations on the four- eye. A powerglide will work just fine, however you may want to consider an OD trans if youre going to the touble. I have a 350 in mine with the shifter on the floor and i wish it was on the colum. Most common solution is to get a chevy van colum, but they are getting hard to find.
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[jocko]

concur with meter swinger, if you MUST go automatic... I'd go TH350 before PG, and I'd go 700R4 before TH350. Do it once, do it right.

But if you just want to get it moving for min $$, TH350 is your tried and true friend. Personally, I wouldn't put a PG in any of my vehicles on purpose. Had one behind a 65 big block, and only kept it because it was an original setup - until I just couldn't take it anymore, sold it and put in a TH350. (this was in the "age before the o/d craze"... I was pretty pleased with my "big swap" upgrade to the TH350..

Now, if you ask me what I'd REALLY!!! want - throw a T5 behind that beauty and keep all 3 pedals right where they belong!

[TX58]

I wouldn't mind keeping it standard but that original 3speed is a moster to drive. 1st and 2nd are ok but when it's in 3rd it starts shaking and jumping. Do these trucks supposed to have some kind of center bearing for the driveshaft? If so its missing
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[OrrieG]

Get a 350TH minimum. I replaced the PG in my 64 Chevelle with a 350TH and love the difference. Around town the PG was alway searching for the right gear. TH has a lower first gear too. Someone did a conversion of the stock 3 speed manual linkage to work with an automatic. A deep search should find it.

[1959 Apache 3600]

Welcome to the forum. I'm planning a Chevy 454bb mated to a th400 in my '59.

Looking forward to seeing pictures of your truck!

[Wrenchbender Ret]

Originally Posted by TX58

I wouldn't mind keeping it standard but that original 3speed is a moster to drive. 1st and 2nd are ok but when it's in 3rd it starts shaking and jumping. Do these trucks supposed to have some kind of center bearing for the driveshaft? If so its missing
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First find out what the problem is. It should not shake in 3rd gear. They came with a 1 piece drive shaft.
Putting an auto trans in one of these takes a lot of modifications. You have to remove the crossmember under the bell houseing. I agree on the T-5. I have done several of that swap & it is reasonably easy & the results are gratifiing.

[OrrieG]

Originally Posted by Wrenchbender Ret

Putting an auto trans in one of these takes a lot of modifications. You have to remove the crossmember under the bell houseing.

No you don't, just need to fab a two piece inspection plate and be patient if you need to pull the trans pan. Look at posts 29 & 30 in my build thread.

[Kim57]

Welcome.
You'll get a ton of good advice here. I'd go the TH 350 or O.D. route also.
We need to see pics of your truck.
kim

[jserrato714]

Welcome to the forum...From Orange, Ca

[Daze57]

glad to have you aboard - from sin city

[beanyard]

You could do a 3 speed much like what you have only with a two speed overdrive ( Borg Warner ) tailshaft. That is what I am running and you pretty much have 5 speeds. 1 2 2od 3 3od. With the 3:90 rear and a 327 and factory tire size it does 75 at 2200 rpms
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[G&R's57GMC]

I'm doing a 5.3 liter with a 4L60E,4.10 gears with 28" or 29" rear tires and Gear Vendors O/D giving me 8 speeds forward to choose from. Why ? I plan on towing with it, comes in handy in the mountains. Lots of 2nd over and 3rd over use. When not towing, double over.

Should see 20-23 mpg on the highway.