Thread: Saginaw 3 speed vs HT350

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Got a ? about the saginaw 3 speed that i tore out of my 76 GMC shortbed , the truck had an inline-6 backed by this saginaw 3 speed that has a 3.11 first gear ratio in it. But im replaceing the inline-6 with a miled 350 sbc with around 340 to 350 hp, and around 380 to 400 lb of torque, and would like to know if the saginaw 3 speed will hold up to the task? or would i be better off with a HT350 automatic to go with the 3.42 gear's that's in the rearend? A 700R4 tranny's not with in my budgit at this time, but a HT350 with a small stall i can do. (Please Advise)

Since no one has answered your question ......... I'd go with the TH350. But I'm old and don't like to do extra work (Right arm/left foot). The 3 speed may hold up, but what shape is it in after it's years behind the 6. If you beat on it too much in a relatively heavy truck it could snap. Just my opinion.

Definately, the Saginaw is fine for the less than 275HP motors, not much more than that unless you baby it.

Doug

ThanX (doug23t) thats about the best advise i've had about this dand saginaw 3speed i've had yet. I've posted before on other car sites and everybody has a different opinion about what works and what dont. I believe youve made up my mind about the HT350.