Projects My First Modification - Thanks HAMBers

I've alway been good at repairing and replacing parts on my vehicles but this was my first attempt at modifying any part of my car. I've got a 51 Pontiac with a 239 inline 6 and a 3 speed. I've had it a little over a year now and spent last winter getting it road ready and then enjoyed driving it all summer. I really understand the fun and satisfaction of driving an older vehicle that everyone talks about. This winter my plans are to upgrade the driveline and convert the electrical system to 12 volts.

After reading tons of posts, asking lots of dumb questions, and digging around the countryside looking for parts, I decide to replace the original 3spd with a T5. Using "Flat Ernie's" Ultimate T5 Guide and "Tony's" 53 Chevy T5 Conversion posts as reference, I started on my first modification.

I got ahold of an old T5 out of 86 S10 for next to nothing, cleaned it up and inspected everything for wear. The truck only had 68K on it when it was totalled so everything looked good inside. Being on a limited budget I made an adapter plate instead of purchasing one. Many hours test fitting CAD plotted templates and I finally got the correct pattern.

Preparing the car for the bigger trans came next. I cut out the cross member and fab'd up a new mount for the transmission. I had to redesign the parking brake adjuster using 1x1 angle iron, and incorporated it into the new mount - 4 bolts and the entire assembly will slide out of the way should I need to remove the tranny.

I'm using a stock S10 clutch disc with the original pressure plate and throw out bearing from the Pontiac. This allows me to keep as much original as possible. The S10 disk is only slightly smaller the the original, but I'm only running about 90hp so I don't think I need to worry about it.

I finished bolting everything up this weekend and took a couple of photos of the progress so far. Next steps are to start upgrading the rear suspension and installing a new rear axle to accept an open drive shaft.

Again, the HAMB is a great resource for guys like me who are just starting out, and thanks to all the knowledge that the veterans share openly.

 

If a '51 Pontiac is a turd, I'll eat poop every day with pepperoncini's and soda pop. Cool car, and good job doing an awesome and impressive modification. I bet that Pontiac will be fun to drive with the T-5.

 

that tranny will help alot, should be a better driver now!!!