muncie install into 58

[don izzo]

o.k., now that I know what type tranny I have bought for my 58 ( 66-67-68 muncie), I need a little more info. I understand from "Corvette Central" there were shims used between the cross member and the trans mount to maintain driveline alignment for the 61-62's with the muncie. Since my 58 didn't use these shims (T10) how can I determine how many shims are necessary. Also can anyone e-mail a copy of the page from the assembly manual for 61-62 that will show the orientation of the shims and the trans mounting plate for the muncie? Thanks to all!!

Don

[William C.]

You have mail

Please email me directly if the link doesn't work.

[don izzo]

Re: You have mail

Bill I got it! thanks!
Don

[Dennis A.]

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Don...

To mount a Muncie, Best check the following:
Use a '62 4-speed transmission mount adapter plate.
Muncie shifter linkage is required, unless a Hurst Competition shifter is desired.
The Bell housing must match the muncie main housing. The model year of the main housing is important for this match.
A muncie transmission slip yoke must be installed. (26 spline, "4 1/2" inch X 2 1/2 inch Dia.) The length is very important, if I could every find one a little longer, I would use it.
The shims fit under the trans-cross member. ( Most muncie's will go a long time without the use of shims)

[William C.]

Re: You have mail

The '61-62 factory bellhousing will work with any muncie other than a '73 (704 case), no problem. The purpose of the shim is to reduce drivishaft vibration, and although it doesn't really hurt the trans, I have been told by folks who have installed it that it does reduce vibration.

[don izzo]

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But will the muncie work with my stock 58 bell housing?

Don

[William C.]

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Yes!

[Tom P.]

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A Muncie into a 56-62 is virtually a factory bolt-in. It is toooooooooooooooooooo easy. As mentioned, use the rear mount adapter for a 62, they're availabe at the aftermarket sources for about $20. Also, as mentioned, ues a 63-later 27 spline yoke (same as turbo 350) for the driveshaft. I have found that about a 1in spacer, on each side, between the tranny cross member and frame is a perfect amount. I use 1in square tubing, each piece is about 4in long. Of course, this also requires longer bolts. Again, toooooooooooooooooooooo easy. I use a Hurst shifter for a 63-67 Vette and one of the replica shifter handles which results in excellent shifting and provides the look of a factory shifter. A Muncie will bolt up to your bell housing just as if it was originally done by Chevrolet at the factory!!!
Bill,
I think you meant 63.

[Jim K.]

Re: You have mail

Hi Tom: Can you eloborate on the 1"x4" tube spacer? Are you drilling it to bolt through two bolts each side? I just started shimming my 61 with the munci set up and the vibration was greatly reduced, but I only have 3/8" of washers in there. I mah have to try this 1" tube stock tip. How close does the distributor end up being to the fire wall?
Thanks!!!
Jim

[Christopher R.]

Muncie in a C1

When I had a Muncie in my '62, I used 2 lug nuts at each of the 4 corners as spacers to drop the rear of the transmission down. (Hey, gimme a break. It was the mid '70s.) What's the thickness of 2 lugs nuts? Probably about 1 inch. Don't remember how close the distributor got the the firewall. But it wasn't remarkable.

[Jim K.]

Re: Muncie in a C1

Hey Chris, I'm working today, why are you on the computer, it's way too nice to be indoors!!! Have a great weekend!!! 2 lugnuts is a good inch!!!

[Tom P.]

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Jim,
The 1in square tube is what I used because that is what I had immediately available. If I had to make spacers again, I'd probably use something like 1in alum bar stock. I just drilled 2 holes in each piece of square tubing to match the frame and cross member holes and put it all together with longer bolts.
The 62 cars came from the factory with about a 1/8in thick spacer between the frame and cross member, but those cars had a T-10 4sp. With a Muncie, you need a thicker spacer. As I mentioned, 1in seems to be just about right!!!

There is ZERO problems with room between the dist and firewall. In fact, I have full ign shielding on my 56 and there is still plenty of room.