Transmission Swap

Hi, I have a 61 Chrysler Newport with the original Push Button TorqueFlight Transmission. I'd like to swap out the old transmission for a 5 or 6 speed automatic. I still want to use the Push Buttons and it will be come my daily driver so I need a pretty reliable set up. Has anybody done this or have any suggestions? I would appreciate it.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>

 

There are kits for 'typewriter drive' for the modern electronic automatics, as well as a "paddle shifter" from a couple vendors. How they would mesh with your current set of push buttons, I don't know.

http://www.retrotekspeed.com/products/smart-shift/smart-shift-stand-alone/smart-shift.html

Or maybe

http://www.fuelairspark.com/Products/details/controller/over.asp

None of it's cheap.

Is the switch assembly you have (stock) just switches, or is there a mechanical linkage of any kind?

 

Thanks, has anybody adapted something like that for the stock switches?

Also where is a good place for adapter plates for 61 big block Chrysler?

 

First, you need to do an intro. 2nd check out www.forwardlook.net somewhere there is ref for use of OEM push buttons with a late tranny. Adaptors, look at Wilcap. On a BBChr, i think you just need to put in a later crank for the late tranny, but maybe not.

 

Sorry, just did. This looks like a great place

I appreciate the help

 

I assume you want a 5/6 speed for either acceleration or better MPG.

I would explore a gear vendors overdrive unit on the tail of the torqueflite.

A rebuilt torqueflite is a very reliable trans and the gear vendors units are tough.

I think you will have less time and money using your stock trans and an OD unit than by converting everything over to use a modern 5/6 speed auto.

If the gear vendors unit will not adapt to a 61 torquflite you should look for a 65 unit (it has cable shift with a modern style tail shaft).

Good luck
Carmak
Riverside, Iowa