Automatic transmission conversion

[Ernest C.]

I'm thinking about changing the automatic transmission in a 1965 convertible. I could use some help in deciding whether this would make sense. Does anyone have any ideas on the hours to do this, as well as degree of difficulty or any pitfalls. I have purchased most all of the parts needed, and would appreciate any insight.
Thank you
Ernie

[Bob R.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

I just changed my 63 from an automatic to a 4 speed. The under dash changes and the under hood changes were done in 3 hours. Clutch pedal, cross shaft etc. The console in a 63 has a removable plate for the transmission indicator that's not the case with a 65. To remove the automatic and repalce with the 4 speed took 4 hours under the car. All of the parts are pretty much bolt in. I installed a muncie from a 64. I did spend some time getting all the aprts together so there were no surprises.

[Donald O.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

Are asking about switching to a manual four speed or an automatic OD (4 or 6 spd) ?

Don

[Ernest C.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

I'm taking out the original automatic, and replacing with a muncie 4 speed.
Ernie

[Jim T.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

I'm taking out the original automatic, and replacing with a muncie 4 speed.
Ernie

Did you get a standard ratio or close ratio 4-speed? The standard ratio would work best with rear gears for automatic car.

[Ernest C.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

A follow up to my original question.
In order to remove the automatic transmission do we have to remove the engine? It actually seems too tight underneath to get the transmission out, but I can't believe we have to remove the engine.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks Ernie

[Bob R.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

You do not have to remove the engine from the car I didn't. We removed the passengers side exhaust pipe, disconnected the drive shaft, disconnected the linkage and cooling lines put a jack or brace under the engine to preven it from leaning and removed the transmission. It is a tight fit but does come out. The muncie goes in a little easier as it is thinner and lighter.

[Edward J.]

Re: Automatic transmission conversion

You do not have to remove the engine from the car I didn't. We removed the passengers side exhaust pipe, disconnected the drive shaft, disconnected the linkage and cooling lines put a jack or brace under the engine to preven it from leaning and removed the transmission. It is a tight fit but does come out. The muncie goes in a little easier as it is thinner and lighter.

Bob you forgot one thing, remove the transmisson mount.this gives alittle more room to slide the transmisson back, so the front torque convertor can be removed and then tilt the front down as to clear the flywheel, if you want remove the flywheel this will also give more room. Its a tight fit. when removing the torque convertor its full of fluid , so have some rags ready.