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fgowi
11-05-2016, 06:28 PM
I have a '57 Chevy 3100. There will be a 350 in it with approx. 310 HP. The rear end is currently 3:55. Wheel / tire combo yields just a tiny bit over 29 inches... 17 / 7 wheels with virtually no offset (not that that should matter).

I've scanned all 11 pages of this forum looking for advice. I didn't see anything that gives me an answer. May have missed it. In any case...

Would y'all please recommend a transmission to marry up to this drive train? The truck will be a daily driver. It may very well do some long distance trips. I've read a bit about TH350, TH400 and have been Binging. My budget would be $1,200 to $1,400.

Thanks in advance for any ideas.

chevynut
11-05-2016, 06:50 PM
Definitely go with an overdrive automatic like a 700R4.

rustay56
11-06-2016, 01:17 AM
I agree with CNUT 700r4 is a good trans. If you purchase one get the factory brackets to hold the TV cable in the correct position to the carby as it is crucial that it is set properly or trans failure is guaranteed.

Regards Andrew

fgowi
11-06-2016, 05:37 PM
Thanks. I like the idea of a "tall" final gear as long as it's in the right gear when needed. I'll begin the search. Thanks again.

markm
11-07-2016, 07:17 AM
Look for an 87 or newer 700r4, the ones with Aux. valve body. They contain numerous upgrades from early models.

rockytopper R.I.P 5-13-2017
11-07-2016, 04:59 PM
Agree with above for auto, 200r is also an option. My good friend just installed a t5 5 speed from a Camaro behind his double hump head 327 in his 59 3100 its a cheap OD option if you like standard.

fgowi
11-07-2016, 06:39 PM
Built a double hump 327 in 1971. That's about how far removed I am from this stuff. That was for a '57 BelAir 2 HT. A guy ran a light and pancaked that car. Broke my whole heart!!

Thanks markm. Just left "Bowtie Overdrives" site. I'm wondering if getting a trans rated for 450 horse is overkill and stupid. I do HATE sloppy shofts. And, I'm finding lengths vary between 2WD and 4WD. And a couple different bolt up patterns. Ugh. Might take awhile for me to figure this out.

rustay56
11-08-2016, 01:26 AM
A fresh rebuilt 700 in standard form will handle that. Get a Corvette 2nd gear servo installed to sharpen up the shift as they are abit lazy into second. Good luck.

Regards Andrew.