I am thinking of buying one of these trucks. Has anyone put a SBC with a T5 into one? Just wandering how it fits?
I've never done it, but I'm sure it fits like a dream. I used to have a '63 Stepside that was converted to an SM465 w/ a 283. That would be a great trans.
If you're looking for one, aim for he '63-up. The '60-'62 has a torsion bar front suspension, which requires an X-frame and a torsion-bar cross member... it makes things tight in the trans area. In fact, so tight that the transmissions wouldn't go in from the bottom: yank the seat, unbolt the trans tunnel cover, and slip it in from the top. I haven't seen any cross member kits available for the '60-'62 either, though if you're handy with a welder, that won't be a problem. The '63 had a coil spring front suspension, traditional perimeter frame, and aftermarket crossmembers are available. The '63 has the wrap-around windshield, while the '64-'66 have the later-style flat windshield. -Brad
I've done it. Might have to move the motor mount stands. Almost a bolt in set up. Even used the stock bellhousing. jerry
cool thanks, Maybe not HAMB but I bought a 66 with a 350/350 and I let somebody else buy the other piece of **** that needed a transmission. Howevever, I may want to throw a T5 or even a T56 into this one some day. Thanks for the info.
I have a 66 pickup with a 350 and a t5. I used the 6 cylinder motor mount location, it put the motor back closer to the fire wall. but that also puts the shifter closer to the seat. so i used an s10 tail housing on my world cl*** t5 to move the shifter forwards about 6 inches. The t56 on the other hand would require i new ****** tunnel because the stock one simply isnt high enough. I think a guy could use a 4 speed hump out of a 3/4 ton. i tried to put a viper 6 speed in my truck, and even with the engine in the forward motor mount position, it wouldnt even come close without cutting out the floor.
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