Thread: 57 Chevy - Installing a T350 trans

Tweet

I'm new to this forum, so forgive me if this issue has been address before. I have a '57 Chevy with a factory 283 and cast iron Powerglide. I plan to install a turbo 350 trans and was wondering what troubles I will encounter. My main question is in regards to the crossmember. I read somewhere that a 4-speed crossmember will work with a T350. Is this true? Are there any aftermarket manufacturers that make a crossmember that fits this application? Will I need to use a different dipstick? Sorry for so many questions, I'm just trying to cover all the bases. Thank you in advance for your help. - Ben

This is what you need to properly install that trans in a 55-57 Chev. www.jimmeyerracing.com/ch2.html

WOOPS! won't work on a factory 57 283 with no side mounts.. (GEEZERITIS AT WORK!)

I've used a trans crossmember from a first series Camaro before, with a small amount of adaptation it's nearly a bolt in. Unless you can find one cheap, which is harder now because of the popularity of these cars, here's a store bought option http://www5.mailordercentral.com/rbs...item=1&mitem=1
Year One, and other Tri 5 chev parts vendors offer them too.

Now, something else to think about. I'm going to assume you have the stock 283 block, and stock side mounts on the trans bell housing since you didn't say. If you put a TH350 on, and go to the rear (relative to the trans) crossmember, you won't have those bellhousing mounts. Since your stock engine is mounted on the very front you've got quite a span between the front and rear supports. It puts a lot of strain on the bellhousing/engine block mounting flange/bolts. I'm not going to tell you it hasn't been done, and some have gotten away with it, but many have cracked their 350 trans case too. The fix would be to mount the engine with the side engine mounts of the later engines, but as I said, I'm assuming you have the '57 block which doesn't have accomodation for those. Now, if you've got a later block that has the bosses cast on the side for the mounts, that would be the ticket.

Thank you for your help Bob. It is the stock 283, so I'm sure it doesn't have the side mounts. I am going to have to go and inspect and give this swap some more thought. Thanks again. -Ben