Does this
cross-member situation point to it being hydramatic? The cross-member under the U-joint bolts in but no drivetrain touches it. I do remember the one forward of it does have the riveted on ears with the center section bolted in.
Transmission cover hole looks to be "custom"
Both cross-members, the one under the U-joint and the one under the bell housing with the riveted on ears.
Where designed to be used with a Hydra-Matic trans.
H-M rear cross-member, transmission tail housing mount Trucks that came equipped with manual shift transmissions, the crossmember under the bell housing,
is one continuous crossmember between the frame rails.
It is riveted to the frame rails and is non-removable when servicing the transmission.
1954 GMC HYDRAMATIC & MANUAL crossmember differences click pictures to enlarge.
GMC and Chevrolet crossmembers are virtually identical.
In 1954 trucks equipped with manual shift transmissions, the Cross-members under the U-joint was no longer needed.
In 1954 they changed something, can't remember what it was at the moment. Tclederman knows what it is.
Here is a
stock setup for a 1954 Chevy 3100 w/4 speed.
1954 Chevrolet 3100 Factory Stock w/4 speed -photo album
Transmission cover was cut for stick.
