Swap to automatic

[70inline6]

1960, 235 6cyl, 3spd

I read several threads but really didn't get the information I need to feel comfortable making the swap. I was going to swap to a 3 spd manual with overdrive I have (and still may).... but lately I've been thinking I may swap to a powerglide.

I know of one near here from a 58 Impala, rebuilt with a torque converter for $200. Guy says he rebuilt it several years ago and it has just sat in his garage, waiting on a project that never came.

What would I need to make the swap to a powerglide if I was going to use a Lokar or B&M style shifter, and had the cooler lines? Again, he has the converter... what else do I need - shifter, tranny cooler, flywheel... what else?

Thanks, Brad

[tincan1966]

If memory serves, the '58 'glide will be a cast iron version with no external cooler.
I think you want a '62 or '63 or newer trans, but sure someone with more knowledge about PG trans will chime in.
Another thought, depends on your rear end gears and driving needs. The manual trans trucks usually had 3.73, or 4.11 gears in the back, may not be a comfortable feel trying to drive highway speeds.


Lots of knowledge here, you'll get alot of good, useful help.

[gofastnut]

Trans crossmember replaced/moved/modified. Driveline shortened or lengthend.
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[70inline6]

Originally Posted by tincan1966

If memory serves, the '58 'glide will be a cast iron version with no external cooler.
I think you want a '62 or '63 or newer trans

... The manual trans trucks usually had 3.73, or 4.11 gears in the back, may not be a comfortable feel trying to drive highway speeds.

My truck has the 235 6cyl, by what I've read, a newer powerglide won't bolt up to it - the cast iron one does... If I'm misinformed I'll start looking for a 200R instead and get an overdrive auto. It has a 3.90 gear so unless I use an overdrive trans, it's still going to be 1.1 anyway.

[tincan1966]

70inline - I believe You are right, I didn't pay close enough attention to the 235 engine- clearly had 230/250 on my mind.
Therefore I have no useful info for you-not familiar with those engines as much.