I've been offered a '64 Electra 6 window with a bad engine for dirt cheap. I have an adapter from a Jeep that mated a BOP engine to a Nailhead pattern 400 transmission. I believe i can use the adapter to drop a 455 in the car. Besides motor mounts and other fitment issues will the stock 455 flexplate, starter and torque converter bolt right up to the transmission and work? I believe the Nailhead transmission case was shorter than a later BOP case which makes up for the thickness of the adapter itself. Any input is welcomed, thanks!
Nice project. If there is any difference at all in length between a 64 TH400 and a BOP TH400, it would have to be very slight. That 64 TH400 is likely in desperate need of a refresh; with BOP TH400s so common, just build one up for your 455 with no adapter needed. Bruce Roe
That's what I thought, for the hassle to get the adapter lined out and the fact he's going to have to do motor/frame mounts any way, why not find a suitable BOP turbo 400. If it is a SP, you can have that swapped over fairly easily and have a SP 400 with a BOP bellhousing.
'64 was the first year for the 400, the control hydraulics were redesigned for 65 and later. Most everyone stays away from that early, one year only transmission. Parts are getting hard to find, even simple stuff like gaskets and seals. It's not a Variable Pitch Stator transmission. Upgrade to the later 65-76 trans if you can, best year is a 70 if your going with a fixed pitch setup. If you want a VP, then look for a 67 TH 400 out of a Riv or Wildcat, it will be an SP and is the later case, will bolt right in. JW
Thanks for the replies. I knew the '64 trans was a one-year trans so i planned on putting a good '65 switch pitch i have in the car. it's still a used transmission though, probably better off just getting one of my later BOP 400's rebuilt and keep it simple. Thanks again.
The 65-67 big Olds have no speedo output (left front wheel drive), and have a long tail. But the 67 442 has the output and short tail, if you can find one. Bruce Roe
