I would have traded you a 5-window 54 cab/chassis (set up for a stock 4-speed) for your 5-window '54 set up for a stock automatic. I have the '54 Hydra-Matic drive train (and all other parts unique to this set-up) but not the cab/chassis. Anyone know where to find a '54 Hydra-Matic without a drivetrain?
Here are some other things that are different on a Hydra-Matic 1/2 ton in '54:
- different brake system master cylinder
- different routing for brake lines
- engine and transmission were a matched pair (until death)
- the enclosed driveshaft rear-end has a shorter torque tube
- there is a a very heavy cross-frame brace for the rear of the hydramatic
- higher output generator
- I am not certain if the shift indicator mounting holes on the steering column are the same as for the three-speed.
There were no special model numbers indicated in the vehicle serial number (on the left front door hinge pillar) for trucks with Hydra-Matics but the engine IDs for Hydra-Matics were something like F54M, F54MA, F54B (1/2, 3/4, and 1 tons built at Flint) or T54M, T54MA, T54MB (1/2, 3/4, and 1 tons built at Tonawanda).
Tim
