I agree. Those trans are supposed to be pretty much bulltproof. go to www.areds.com and get phone number and call Leon. He may be able to steer you a direction on repairing it. I installed a HydraMatic in my 54 last year and it is a major improvement for the truck. But if you do decide to go a different direction on the trans, don't let the old parts and linkage get away without letting me know if you don't mind. Why don't you take the linkage loose and see if trans shift lever will run thru the gears.I can send you a service manual on cd if you want.