Bellhousing Tech Question

O.k., well I think I might convert my 235/powerglide to a stick... but I'm on the fence.... do I convert it to a stock non-syncro 3spd, and make it a "period correct custom" stock driveline and 6volt wiring ect. or do I keep the 235 but add a 4 or 5 speed and open rear... either way I need a little info.. My tech question is, is their a bellhousing available to mate my 235 to a 4 or 5 speed thats a stock chevy peice or do I have to use a custom peice? Will a stock 3spd bellhousing work w/ a 4 spd or is the bolt pattern different???? Any info would be great!
Thanks Jason

 

You can use a bell housing from a 55-57 chevy 6-cyl. and mount a 3,4,5 speed to it. I know there are other bell housings that have the off-set bolt pattern on bottom right side for the trans. but not sure which ones. I like the tri-five housings because of the bell housing rubber mounts, I think it's better to have the weight of the 235 resting on the bell housing than all the weight on the trans., especially if your going to use the T-5 which is aluminuim. I have a T-5 in my 37 and love it with a 62' 235.

 

Put the 5 spd behind it so you can get out there and drive it. If it were a survivor period custom, that may be a little different, but build it to drive and enjoy.

You can drive and enjoy a 6V 216 too, don't get me wrong. The OD will give you some MPGs and pleasant cruising speeds. JMHO

 

Thanks guys, I know where I can locate a tri-5 bellhousing, thats great to know it will work. I actually have a 3 spd from my old 57'... I know its a non-syncro but at least its a start. I know it works and can always up grade later. Do you know if my starter will mount to a tri-5 bellhousing or will I have to switch flywheels and starters???? Just thought of that.
Thanks again.
-jason

 

5 speed, parts are easier to find and you can go 90 without blowing it up. Crossmember can be a pain on the 49-52 cars, but its worth the h***le. I put a s10 t5 behind mine with nothing more than an angle grinder, hand tools and 1 trip to borrow a welder for the new mount. As far as weight support, the s10 support rods bolted right up to a 58 car bellhousing. (your car will be different in that regard)

note* 55 and up 12 volt cars use different flywheel/ starters than 54 and early 6 volt cars and trucks.