Thread: early hemi trans options

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Been looking into putting a lasalle tranny to a 331 ( extended ),will the 3 speed handle it? or with the early hemi is it really an issue?? Are there other trannys that are just as good to use or better.Appilcation is a simple street car that should the need arise ,,could handle a race here and there ,,but not all out racing. Thanx

Depends, I guess, on what you plan to use the 331 for, but the Cad/LaSalle three speed is a very tough transmission. They were in such demand in the fifties and sixties that they got pretty well used up, and unless you already have one, finding (then paying for) one could be a problem. Adapting one to your engine could be a challenge as well. My partner and I ran a 354 which also had the extended (bell housing cast onto the block) configuration back in the early days. We ran an early hydra-matic behind it. An adapter was available at the time.

I know better than to tell a hot rodder that something can't be done because they'll do it before sundown. Somebody may have what you need sitting under the workbench, so ask around!

Good luck,

Jim

Try www.wilcap.com in Pismo Beach, CA. He makes adapters to put virtually any trans behind an early Hemi extended block.

Cheers, Mark

Good information, Mark. Thanks. I'll put it in my file.

Jim

Check with http://www.hothemiheads.com/ They show a few options for the extended bellhousing 51-3 motors ( as well as for the non-extended motors).

http://www.hothemiheads.com/hotheadspi4.html This link should take you to the trans adaptor section.

Thanx I have looked at those sites before. Was more asking for imput based on experience others may have had with certain set ups.Which set ups may be better or a waste of time.Planned on going with the Wilcap Adapt Plate