I recently picked up a '52 331 and hydramatic to go in my lakes mod but discovered the trannys first gear (3.82:1)combined with the 4.11 in the '40 banjo rear I was going to use results in an overall ratio more suited to a truck turning 40" Superswampers.I'v got a Cad/Olds manual bellhousing and was wondering if someone could recommend a combination of flywheel/clutch and overdrive manual such as the T5 or even an early 3 speed that will accept a bolt on overdrive unit such as the Borg/Warner.I'd prefer to go with a hydraulic T/O bearing if possible.
Well, if you used an early ('55-'65) Chevy three speed/OD transmission, you'd have the choice of either a 2.94:1 or 2.47:1 low gear ratio( 6 cylinder vs. V8 gears), or if you lucked out and found a close ratio three speed from an early 'vette, a gearset with a 2.21:1 low. Most of the later ('66-'71) Saginaw three speeds with OD had a low gear ratio of 2.85:1. However, the only transmission that will bolt to the factory stick bell housing is the style it came with originally.
I will bet that if you are clever you could use a Ford four speed that has fourth as an overdrive. fake top loader.
I want one of these... http://www.high-impact.net/transmission_and_gear/rangeroverdrive.htm winner winner chicken dinner???
I used a NOS Schiefer Flywheel, Chevy clutch plate a Ford pressure plate (New style multiple spring one that replaces the old 3 level ones) and a Chevy Hydraulic bearing. Then used a Cad/Olds to Early Ford then a Speedway early for to Chevy. Im using a saginaw 4 speed. Clutch is super smooth, and light
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