1959 Buick LaSabre - Transmissions rebuilder

Discussion in 'The "Juice Box"' started by Gregory Dean, Jan 31, 2021.

  1. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    I am looking for a rebuilder to restore the original Dynaflow transmission. We are located in Southern California. I have seen communication in forum about switching out the Dynaflow to a ST400 but seems that the Torque Tube and Rear End would have to go as well. Prefer to keep it original and rebuild what we have. Appreciate any referrals and suggestions.
     
  2. WQ59B

    WQ59B Well-Known Member

    Correct: going to a THM will require swapping everything out 'south' of the trans, including the rear suspension.
    I believe '61 Buicks have an open driveshaft, but I'm not aware that's a bolt-in, as the frames are completely different.
     
  3. telriv

    telriv Founders Club Member

    A '61-'62 3rd. member is a bolt-in & would replace the original torque tube 3rd. member. So now you keep the suspension & brakes you now have keeping mods to a minimum. Now you have to get a TH400 & do the nec. mods to install it.
     
  4. WQ59B

    WQ59B Well-Known Member

    ^ In '59, the rear control arms bolt to the TorqueTube.
     
  5. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    Thank you for the updates and input. Much appreciated.
     
  6. Brent

    Brent Founders Club Member

    There is a guy in central CA, Atwater, that used to rebuild those. Jim Moore at Moore's Auto in Atwater, 209-358-0091, on the 99 North of Fresno. I used to work for him, like 23 years ago, and actually rebuilt a few with him. I googled the shop to get the phone number, so I figure he's still there. I haven't actually talked to him in several years though. I'd give him a try. If it's that hard to find someone to rebuild them I ought to get into the business, lol. Good luck.
    Thanks
    Brent
     
  7. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    Got your message thank you for the heads up sir. I will follow up tomorrow.
     
  8. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    Got your message Brent. Thank you for the heads up sir. I will follow up tomorrow.
     
  9. Brent

    Brent Founders Club Member

    Did you find anyone to build your Dynaflow?
    Thanks
    Brent
     
  10. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    Hello Brent,
    I am using Herbs Automotive to inspect and install the Transmission in Southern California. https://herbsautomotive.com
    If the unit needs to be rebuilt I have talked witth Jim Hughes at Jims Dynaflow service in Toledo OH, If necessary I can arrange to ship to him but I have yet to hear if he can actually take on the project due to his current work load. Moore Automotive in Atwater California no longer is accepting new jobs, he was my first choice based on your suggestion.

    So a work in Progress sir, keeping my fingers crossed we just need to reseal the unit
     
  11. Brent

    Brent Founders Club Member

    Did the Hughes guy give you a quote for rebuilding the Dynaflow? I'm curious what they charge. If a guy in LA has to ship a Dynaflow all the way to Ohio to get it rebuilt, then there is definitely a market for a west coast rebuilder. I may have to consider adding this to my side work gig.
    Good luck
    Brent
     
  12. Gregory Dean

    Gregory Dean Member

    Yes Brent, over the phone basic rebuild was Jim Hughes quoted was $1200.00
     

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