Does a gyromatic have 3 forward gears?

Recently purchased a 53 dodge and it is supposedly a Gyro-matic but I have my doubts. It has the badging that says gyromatic but it has 3 forward gears, shiftable on the column. My research says the Gryo had 2 forward 'ranges' or gears and an additional 2 'gears' that were shifted electronically, I think using hydraulics. It is a fluid drive, but that doesn't mean gyro, right? I just want to know what I have.
Have done a search here and other places but I'm still not sure. My hunch is that it was orginally a gryomatic car that has had a standard 3 speed fluid drive installed at one point or another. Thoughts?

Thank you,

Scott

 

You are correct. The gyromatic should only have "hi" and "lo" ranges plus reverse. It also should have all the extra wiring to the carb, etc.

 

Gyromatic-what a great word. Some one should do a post of all the gimmicky names the car makers have thrown at us over the years. No intention to hijack here, have never heard "gyro" and "matic" used together before.

 

Thanks Curtis,
There is no extra wiring to the carb. HA, there is NO wiring to the carb. I have automatic choke but don't have it installed. ONce that's installed it will be the only wiring close to the carb.
What's the opinion, the 3 speed better or Gyro? SInce i have to rewire the whole thing (besides engine electric and ignition switch) I'm glad i don't have to deal with wiring up the gyro stuff.

Scott

 

I have a gyromatic in my '52 Dodge. It works fine but it's SLOW! I think you got a good deal with the 3spd

 

Easiest test of all:
Start engine.
Hold brakes on tight.
Place in gear, let out clutch (with brakes held firm).
Engine dies - not Gyromatic.
Engine lives - Gyromatic.
Simple.

Cosmo

P.S. Occured to me that your might not run. No matter, this test will work for that:
Place car in gear.
Release brakes.
Push car.
Car rolls - Gyromatic.
You grunt but car no move - Not Gyromatic. Or you wimp. Get extra help.