I was able to crawl under the truck and put the bellhousing sitting on the crossmember. I took a measurement from the top of the transmission mount diameter opening to the floor and it is 3 inches. I then measured the transmission and I have about 4 inches to the top surface (not including the shifter area which sticks up higher).

In looking at the pictures from the earlier post it doesn't look like even changing the bell housing is going to get me any more clearance at the top. Both appear to line up in the same place just have different points they rest on. Even with my crossed configuration you are pretty much in the same spot.

I think this is partially a result of the original floor not being in place in that area and a flat steel plate sits in the center section of the floor.

Based on what I'm seeing, I have two options, I can cut an opening in the floor large enough to let the transmission have the clearance it needs (I was planning to have some center console anyway) or I can modify the crossmember and weld in some mount pieces so the bellhousing sits lower in the crossmember. There is sufficient clearance in the center to lower it the extra inch.

I have time to think about it and see what others say in their comments. Then once I get it back in the garage I will mock it up again and make a final decision what to do.


Just so everybody is clear on the origins of my truck and engine.

The truck was pulled out of a barn by the person I bought it from but the original engine and transmission were not useable. He had a friend with an original 235 with a SM420 in a 1957 that he was pulling to change for a small block and automatic transmission. That is how I ended up with the combination.

So far the project has been very enjoyable but mostly doing the grunt work of cleaning, fabricating, and painting. Now I'm at the stage where I need to make all the pieces come together and work.

I'm so thankful for all the expertise on this forum because I'm not sure I would be able to complete it all without the help.

Looking forward to your comments.
Scott