Hi, Hope all are well in these times. I have a 55 chevy 1/2 ton with the original drive line, in-line 235ci with manual trans ( 3 on the tree). I'm curious to know or find out how I can convert that manual trans to an automatic, keeping the 235 engine? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Mike
Take a large sack of money and buy the adapter and then buy a 200R4 transmission. Transmission Adapter (langdonsstovebolt.com) You also want the starter he shows. The 200R-4 works better for the application because it has a lower first gear and 0.67 overdrive letting the 235 take off from a stop better while allowing it to cruise at highway speeds with the stock rear end. TH350 vs 200-4R Gearing 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Reverse 200-4R 2.74 1.57 1.00 0.67 2.07 TH350 2.52 1.52 1.00 N/A 1.92
I have a Powerglide that will bolt right up. Unfortunately the Powerglide and Turboglide are the only automatics used behind that engine except for a few Hydramatics used in trucks. The PG and TG are no hell. The alternative is to adapt a more modern trans (expensive) or swap out engine and trans together. In your case I would be tempted to install a Chevy V8 and matching trans out of a later model pickup truck or full size car. The Glide I have came out of a 50,000 mile 1962 granny car with a six. Probably no good to you because I live in Canada.
The down side to the automatic is that the kick down linkage is a pain to figure out. I would put a T-5 behind it and that will pretty much bolt right in.
Buffalo Enterprises sells an adapter also. He can also supply a flex plate with the correct bolt pattern. It has a starter mount welded on so any cheapo Chevrolet starter will bolt on. It will accept any GM auto or stick bellhousing or can.
The Jalopy Journal
