Bellhousing help

[Sooner_Sparky]

Guys I'm new to the forum and need some help. I searched forums but didn't really find my answer. I'm restoring a 1970 Chevy SWB. I have a 4 speed Borg Warner super T10. I planned on using a Lakewood bellhousing but it's hitting the trans crossmember. For strength purposes I don't want to remove crossmember. My question is what bellhousing can I use for the tranny. I know that the truck bellhousings have a bigger opening (5 1/8 ...I think compared to car 4 speed 4 11/16). I will be using a 10.4" clutch. I've heard that pre 68 trucks used smaller openings. Is this true and if so, are they the same size for my t10? Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Sooner_Sparky]

here's a pic of where I was mocking everything up

[Xeen]

Just keep the bellhousing and move the crossmember back untill it clears then drill new holes in the frame and bolt it back in.
If you don't like that idea then fabricate a bent tubular crossmember that fits in its place.

[Sooner_Sparky]

I would like to keep my Lakewood. I have heard some horror stories. I know my header collectors end after the crossmember so that would push it even farther back. It's a idea and I will look at it though. Thanks for the suggestion

[Xeen]

Like you said you are going to have to really look at it to figure out what can be done about it, more than likely you are going to have to fabricate a new crossmember to install in its place.

[Sooner_Sparky]

Besides moving my crossmember, What bellhousing did any of you use? I can't be the only one putting a car 4 speed in my truck. What did you use? Do the earlier truck bellhousings have the smaller opening that will match the 4speeds?