Thanks to my good bud Phil (TREE here on the hamb), I'm fitting a Buick 364 into my '46 Ford Tudor. The engine/trans combo is from a '60, so my Dynaflow is about as long as my...couch. haha. I've searched the begesus out of the hamb for all the Nailhead wisdom it has to offer, which has been REALLY helpful (so thanks for that, gents), but still have some questions. I don't necessarily object to having a Dynaflow, but I know that if I go that route I'll have to switch to a '61 or later version in order to get the open drive...not to mention the much more manageable length. So, here's where my post becomes a question: If I am switching trans anyway, what are the pros and cons for going with the later Dynaflow or just stepping up to the '65-'66 SP400? Like I said, I don't necessarily mind the Dynaflow. I know it's not for everyone, but I'm not everyone. My main consideration is actually space, so I'd really appreciate a dimensional comparison between the two, since I know either one would get the job done. Also, how much shorter is the later Dynaflow than the longer '60 that I currently have? From the pictures that I can find online, it looks like it's considerably shorter...like 8-10". Beyond that, I s'pose it's really just a matter of finding one A) that I can afford (I'm on disability) and B) that's reasonably local so's I can pick it up (I don't see much point in spending more than the parts cost to have things shipped, and relays tend to be very difficult to work out)...but I'm all ears if anyone has put something similar together themselves and can say from experience what has worked out best for them. Thanks in advance!
Well I have a Dynaflow (Dinosaur) in my 63 and I would love to change it out for a 3 or 4 speed auto. They cost a motsa to rebuild and I would rather put that money into a more modern box.Here is a link to this question on the HAMB. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/buick-transmission-adapters.101793/ And this. http://www.transmissionadapters.com/53-66_nailhead.htm
Thanks, I did read that thread before (and had to chuckle at the direction it took...more entertaining than informative), but maybe I should have been more specific. I'll definitely be using one of the two mentioned Buick transmissions...adapters will never enter into the equation.
86 the Dynaflush. Turbo 400 is superior in all aspects. 7004R is a step above the latter with 4th that works with lockup converter. I have a '48 Coupe that's getting a 400 and figure to drive it far and wide. Recently had it rebuilt (ouch) and want to do the same with my power-plant. BOP trans are far easier to find than Chevy, so you shouldn't have a big problem.
Okay, thanks for the reply. Again, an adapter will never enter into this so a TH400 or 700R4 is out. I'm definitely going with either the Dynaflow or the SP400 and really looking for people who can offer to throw a tape across them and give me some physical dimensions.
I would be willing to guess (since it's not my car) that the Buick SP 400 is dimensionally the same as the Chevy. And why are you so averse to an adapter? Might save a lot of time, even some $.
Because given a little patience, I can get either of the Buick trans with the correct bolt pattern for $100-$200. Since I'm not looking to build a race car I just don't see the point of going outside of what already fits and functions, and there's no way no how that any adapted trans is going to total out anywhere near that low of cost. You may be right about the SP400 being the same dimensionally as the TH. I've been trying to check that out myself, but have not been able to verify it. I'm tired of guessing...I am looking for concrete answers now that I've got it narrowed down so that I can get on the hunt and put this thing together. I'm disabled, so I do move slow...but I do move!
The SP 400 is the same externally as the turbo 400 as long as they are for nailheads. The nailhead belhousing is shorter than any BOP/Chevy turbo 400. The later 400 turbo can be changed to SP with the correct t-convertor and front pump with some minor internal mods.
The 64 (first year Super Turbine) ST400 is also one to consider if you find one. It is a turbo 400 internals, just has a one year valve body that is still good, just a bit harder to get parts for valve body if needed. It is still 3 speeds just like the 65-66. Switch pitch is nice, but the non-SP is just fine. The nailhead bellhousing pattern is unique, so it makes a bit harder to find, but I agree that it is better than adapters. If going adapter route, then put an OD trans like the 700R4. Back to your trans swap, you also need to put a torque converter adapter in end of the crank since your engine a dynaslow model. I would not run the dynaslow in a swap application,but if in a running car it can be used. The ST400 or SP400 are both great designs and much improved over the dynaslow. Also all ST/SP400 are open drive.
Thanks gents...this is definitely more what I'm looking for. I'd thought the TH400 and SP400 were likely the same dimensions, but it's hard to tell from pics that you find online and some simply made me think they might not be. And as you point out, Bob, that shorter bellhousing is probably what was throwing me off. So, since the typical charts list about everything BUT the Nailhead-pattern trans dimensions, that's why I'm here asking for them. I can find about everything but what I'm looking for...and it's frustrating. lol 38Chev - True, I haven't really ruled the ST out, just hadn't included it as I haven't happened to catch any leads on one. If one were to present itself I'd certainly consider it. I do know the later trans are better, all around...but being in the shape I'm in I truly have no problem with a slushbox. Two/three years ago I needed a wheelchair if I was on my feet more than a few minutes. Since then thanks to much improved treatment I can almost get by on the right balance of meds and a cane, but it really takes very little to push me back to where I can barely walk. That's the reality, and why I'm not opposed to a Dynaflow. They are smooth, and that benefits me, physically. If I were not impaired in this manner I'd be all over a 4-speed and looking for ways to make my Tudor a demon...but I hate that damned wheelchair a lot more than I love slammin' gears and raisin' hell. I suppose I should have started off with that bit of info, but pronouncing I've got a disability to work around is far from my favorite p***time. Anyway, that's why I don't mind it...and if people could bear that in mind when responding it'd be very helpful.
T difference between SP and TH is that the SP has a switch pich convertor. They were used in heavy cars to help them get off the line better. There is a different pump and a switch from the carb linkage to control a solenoid in the trans, other than that the internals are the same. If I remember right only Buick and Cadillac used the SP trans
Find a switch pitch. As you are starting with a Dynaflow , the crank may still require an adapter to mate to SP/TH flexplate/torque convertor. I vaguely remember something about SOME 364s came with th400s. You may need to machine your crank flange to match or swap to the th400 crank. That 364 crank may be hard to find. TeamBuick website has lots of posts relating to this situation. The "switch can be accomplished by a simple SPST switch connected to a + voltage source. A switch -pitch is preferable because the approximate 2:1 torque multiplier the high stall position provides will give very good acceleration from a stop while using a higher final rear gear ratio (3.08:1) to allow fast lane cruising and economy when torque convertor switches to low stall. Any competent shop can covert any 400 to switch pitch. You'll want it gone through anyway. The Front pump is about $85, and a solenoid wired to a two blade electrical connector. Don't forget a new/rebuilt torque convertor. There are internals in a convertor that wear out too. Don't gamble especially considering your adversities. Try to do it all in such a manner so you only have to do it once. I am 1 for 3 installing junkyard SP400 in perfect working order the first time. I hope this aids your enlightenment. Best regards and good luck with all your endeavors, KB.
I have a '65 Buick trans/converter that came with the nailhead I used in my coupe. I don't see myself using it anytime soon, let me know if your interested. I supposedly was out of a running/driving car. I'm also located in Central Michigan.
Thanks for the input, guys. Yep, I've been doing my homework since picking up the engine, and from that have become registered on several Buick and/or Nailhead dedicated forums. It's all been very helpful, but sometimes you just can't find those last little details running through your head. I'm fortunate to own a metal lathe, but I'll likely buy the torque converter adapter since it's not expensive and its precision is pretty critical. I'm a novice machinist at best and prefer to keep those projects to aesthetic pieces until I have more experience on it. @daddy_o's_diner , you bet I'd be interested. Sent ya a private message.
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