I'm playing around with a 1956 Special build and trying to explore manual transmission options. It doesn't need to be stock. The 322 is still in the car, but the Dynaflow is long gone. I want to go with an open driveshaft rear end anyway, so no worries on losing the factory closed driveline. I have a 1956 Chevy Muncie 3 speed in the shed that I rebuilt years ago that I'd like to try and use. A few questions: How hard is it to find an adapter bellhousing for a 322 to a 1955+ GM manual? How hard is it to machine a factory 264/322 manual bellhousing to accept a GM manual? How hard is it to find a usable 322 flywheel? Are there any other flywheels (I'm thinking like a 400 small block Chevy for the external balance) that can be easily machined to use on a 322? I know the starter gearing would need to be sorted. I know these are a lot of questions, but I appreciate the input from those in the know.
Thanks. I saw his website and the different bellhousings for sale, but I didn't want to call him and waste his time since I don't know what direction I'm going. I figure once I have a solid understand of options, I'll call him if I'll be buying from him.
The 322 has a larger bellhousing diameter than the 364-401-425. The bolt pattern looks similar but won't bolt up due to the diameter difference. Flywheels may be different diameter as well. In addition to Russ's site, take a look on eBay or the HAMB boards for other products. Instead of machining the bellhousing for a specific trans, in some cases you may be able to machine down the input shaft housing to fit the bell.
If it was my project, I wouldn't even consider a 3 speed. To make the effort worthwhile it would have to be 4 speed + overdrive for driveability & economy. But it's your car and choice.
Our plan for the 322 going into my sons 40 Ford PU is to use a Tremec TKO box, Offenhauser 0310 bell housing, and an adapter plate from MDL. Haven't decided on clutch yet but probably hydraulic. We purchased a aluminium flywheel because it was available but on the lookout for a steel one as well. I understand the 322 flywheels are 180 teeth.
As to the OP - There were adapters made for just that purpose. I had a 264 in a '56 Chevy using the original 3-speed. As to Ross's post - Do bear in mind that all Nailheads are externally balanced. The aluminum flywheel will have to be balanced (actually unbalanced) before it is installed. Tom Telesco (telriv) will be able to tell you what the amount of imbalance is.
Hi, Look on evilbay as the aftermarket bell housings seem to come up a lot as fewer build the 264 or 322, and most aftermarket ones fit later T-10's or Muncie mounts and a few have Ford patterns Good luck with the project, keep us all posted on the progress Regards,
I have an early 264 - 322 bellhousing for a standard shift. I suspect it is a 264 housing and flywheel, but either can be redrilled/rebalanced for a 322. The 322 has a different transmission bolt pattern, but (as I recall) the top two bolts are the same; only the bottom two bolt holes need to be redrilled if you are using the "big" 322 Buick/Olds transmission. To be honest, I agree with those who say that you should use a 4-speed gearbox. The flywheel that I have will work, but I don't think I would use the stock bellhousing unless you are doing a restoration.
A 4 or 5 speed with a deep 3.00 or lower 1st gear would get that big Buick rolling out with minimum clutch slippage. Need about 10 or 11 to 1 starting gear ratio to really lay some rubber.
Bendtsens transmission adapters in Minnesota would have some info and options for you as well. if going through all the trouble to do this its a perfect time to consider an overdrive trans. You won’t be disappointed in the drivability
