63, 4 speed ..

[1942]

Is the 4 speed gear box from a 63 model with a 230c engine, a 3 speed + overdrive? or just a normal 4speed? ( granny gear 1st )

And will a V8 fitt directly on the trans?

[markeb01]

You probably have an SM420 old school 4 speed truck transmission. It's a conventional four speed (not overdrive) as high gear is 1:1. Here's a link showing more information than you'll probably ever want to know:

http://www.novak-adapt.com/knowledge/sm420.htm

The transmission bolt pattern matches the standard Chevy V8 bellhousing, but to the best of my knowledge the front of the bellhousing where it attaches to the engine is different between the inline 6 and a V8. The transmission will bolt right up to a V8, but you'll need a bellhousing from a V8.

[raycow]

63-up 6 cyl engines take the same bellhousing as the V-8, except for the 235s used in early production K-series trucks.

Ray

[Heater63]

Like RayCow said. 63 should be the same as SBC and BBC.

For a manual tranny with overdrive, there is only one inexpensive but fairly light duty way to go, a T5. Brad and others on this board have good threads on that approach. Behind a 230 it is fine, even the non world class ones, and you can have overdrive for maybe $500 or so.

For more $$$ you could add an overdrive unit, like Gear Vendors, or do like me and put in a new Tremec TKO ($$$ also) that will handle HP and torque up to 500 or 600 ft/lb if you plan on a bigger V8 in the trucks future.

[markeb01]

Thanks for the clarification. It's been many moons since I've owned an inline six.

[1942]

Thanks good to know!

[Turkey]

Been needing some tranny info. Perfect timing!!

[ANoodle]

That is exactly what I was wondering too. Thanks