The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Trans Druability

I'm running a stock 46 3spd completely rebuild, new bearings, syncros etc. behind a warmed up 235 & 3.55 rear end. What can I expect from this trans. Will it last, or should I be looking for another one for replacement/parts or maybe a T5.

My truck is a weekend driver and I'm not hard on it, I just don't know how long I should expect this trans to last, after all it is 60 years old. I don't want to change anything just to be changing it, it works fine now.

Let me know what you think. Anyone have long term experence with this trans?

Thanks
George

46forme,

I don't know much about the 3 speed trans but I've just rebuilt the 4 speed in my 41. I expect it to outlast me and maybe even my son when it passes to him. The way that you intend using the truck yours should be the same. Just keep an eye on the oil level and change it when needed.

Cheers mate

Bob

What Mozzie said.

Those old transmissions are hard to kill even when you're trying.

Two of my aunts, my dad, and my uncle all learned to drive (or quite possibly grind coffee) on my truck, and the transmission still works great.

Heck, every once in a while, I grind the gears. When you don't drive it very often, it takes a little readustment when you get back into it.

I'll second Brendan. I know of two failures with that tranny. First the soft spot is the first and reverse gear it slides on the second and third speed clutch. I blew the gear by popping the clutch 2-3 times consecutively. My first car 59 Chevy 235 and dumb a$$ kid. The other failure(s) was same gear, but in a 64 Impala with a factory 300 hp 327 and floor shift. Don't abuse it and it will last for years.
Larry