The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline 55 4speed Hydramatic dead - need options

I just bought a 55 2nd- 3600 8 lug pickup. The trans came in several boxes. I need to confirm if the engine is just rebuilt or if it was replaced. I have some codes but I missed the date codes. I have read that this trans is not common and parts are impossible. What have others done when a trans is needed. ALSO - Are brake parts available for the 3600 8 lug trucks?
Thanks
(This is new to me. I have had other vintage vehicles, but never a truck and never a Chevy!)

Welcome to the 'Bolt!
Not sure I can really help you on the Hydro, but there are a few on here familar with them that might be able to.
On the brake parts, shoes are available, as are wheel cylinders. Hardware and drums might be a different issue, Napa might be the best place to check.
There is one question that will come up, so I'm going to ask; do you have a First Series or Second Series '55? I ask as there are 2 different body style '55s, and they are very different from each other. This can make a difference on the parts.

Thanks Bill - I forgot about the first or second series thing. It is a second series. I updated the original post.
I just love the look of a 55 second series!
Has anyone put a later auto trans in? If so, what did you do about an emergency brake???

Hy carfolite, welcome, the Hydramatic is not imposible to find parts for, and it was used in Chevy trucks until 1962. This transmission was used by many many manufacturers, even Rolls Royce used it. My personal vote would be to rebuild it or have it rebuilt and use it. You can install just about any automatic you like in the 55 2nd series through 59, you didn't say whether you had a six or V8 engine, if you have the six, then an adapter will be required to mount anything other than a cast iron Powerglide, with the V8 just about anything is possible, yes crossmembers and linkages will have to be purchased/fabricated, but many choices are available, good luck, and please keep us informed of your progress.

parts for trans are not impossible. A little tougher but not impossible. www.areds.com is one source and there are others.

The last time I rebuilt one, these guys were able to supply all the parts I needed.

http://www.fatsco.com/index.htm

It's a heavy, fairly complex transmission, but very rugged and reliable once it's built properly. Since the Hydramatic trucks had several unique details about them, swapping to a stick shift or a newer-model automatic can get challenging. Build up what you've got, and I think you'll be happier in the long run.
Jerry

Hey everyone -This is an amazing start. Such a quick response. I am only 2 hours away from Fatsco! I hope to be in touch with them soon. I am also going to Fall Carlisle in PA this coming weekend. I hope to get more contacts there.
Thanks for the initial information everyone. Always open to more.

I forgot to mention -It's a 6 cylinder. Still trying to ID which one.

There are two quick references you need to check out. There's a block casting number near the passenger's side front just above the oil pan rail, and a machined pad just to the rear of the distributor with a stamped number. The casting number will give you a reference to which series of engine you have, within a narrow range of years, and the stamped number will identify the year, application, and usually the factory where the engine was assembled. Find those numbers, and we can help you find websites with all the details. A 55 model should have the later-model design engine with full oil pressure to the rod bearings, and insert-type bearings in the rods.
Jerry

I just got rid of a hydramatic (62) tonight, but I doubt the fellow is going to do anything with it. I also know where there is a unit out of a 55. they are basically the same same trans
ron

Anyone ever try to use a 56 power glide behind a 55 235? Is there an adapter? Possible problems?

Hy carfolite, if the tranny came from a six, and you get all the pieces you should be able to install it no problem, my vote is still for the Hydramatic, a much more interesting transmission than the old "slip and slide"

Hey Hotrod Lincoln,
I did find everything you mentioned. The plumbing for the spin on (FL1A) oil filter looks so home done job, with the 1/2 threaded pipe and brazed formed tubing. Haven't tried to start it yet. I will change the oil first and with no mounted transmission and the starter bolted to the block. Do you think if I just add the first transmission housing (for the torque converter) that it will be strong enough for the starter?

IIRC, the front section of the fluid coupling has the starter ring gear made onto it, so it should be sufficient to crank the engine without a problem. The short "bellhousing" ring that adapts the transmission to the engine also has the starter mounting bolt holes, right? It's been a very long time since I've worked on a dual range transmission in a GMC or a Chevy truck!
Jerry