59 Apache project 2018
 

Hi, I have received some good advice through PM's already from this site. I'm just starting a rebuild of a short box side step and I'm looking for advice to help with my selections of power train. To start with, I pulled the original 6 cyl. and I have a 307 rebuilt that I plan to use. Truck will be a driver and used to pull at most 5,000# on occasion.

I'm thinking a 4 speed with OD to handle low end and Hwy speeds. Can I use the original clutch and bell housing? Other suggestions? TH400 3 speed?

I plan to go with single leafs and disc brakes plus power steering. Any issues I should look for?

If you can aim me in the correct direction, It would be much appreciated.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

task force trucks came factory with v8 motors, the first gm trucks to be so equipped
the I6 bell housing won't work, if you can find a v8 bellhousing with the side mounts it is an easy bolt-in swap
switching to an automatic is a whole different ball game and will need new motor mounts and trans x-member fabricated
easy peasy, i've done it a few times, just be aware that it is not a bolt-in swap like the manual

look for the V8 bellhousing off of 55-59 chevy trucks and 55-57 chevy cars
there are a few more options, just can't think of them off the top of my head :D

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Thanks Ogre. I was leaning towards a 4 speed manual with OD. Is there a certain linkage I should look for to floor mount it? Your info was helpful.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

i'm not familiar with any 4 speed manual with od. most 4 speeds have a 1:1 final gear
if your talking 5 speed; 4 speed plus od then your getting into a pricey trans
there are a few builds here with 5 and 6 speed od trans, i'm just not familiar with them
it will definitely be a plus to use an od trans if you stay with the stock rearend

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Thanks, I'm just looking for some low end power without red-lining on the hwy. Love your build by the way. It is fun to see all the ideas everyone has. Baby steps for me. I want to get the frame, suspension, powertrain and brakes in working order first and then start with the fun stuff. I need all the help I can get to educate me.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Well, just because...
http://www.dieselhub.com/trans/np440.html

Used in GM trucks in the '80s.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Thanks 1PTM, That is kind of what I was thinking of doing.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

I used a 700r4 (auto w/OD) in my 58 and a NV3500 5spd (manual OD) in my 66 with a low hump. Not sure how tight it would be in the 58 but it's a decent trans. I prefer the auto as I drive in traffic here in CA and shifting gets irritating. Both trucks have 350SBC & original rear ends, with OD freeways are not a problem, 80mph at 2500 rpm.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Thanks, did you need to change the tunnel with the 700r4?

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

I used a 700R4 also and did not have to change the tunnel. That said, this will depend on the design of your motor and transmission mounts, but there's plenty of room unless you position the engine/trans really high in the bay.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

my sbc w/ 700r4 need a small mod to get the floor cover on :D

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

It fit right in, no mods. I used the aftermarket tube crossmember for mounting the motor and trans and a lokar shifter. Ogre has a heavily modified bad @$$ truck, his build thread is a good read.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

X2 on Ogre's build thread. It's a shame that the Fiberglass Forum folded. Ogre had an equally-good thread there, dedicated to 'glass fabrication.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

So to start the project, you need a garage to work in. But I see I need to upload pics to an account to link. Needless to say, I'm trying to get a garage with a hoist built before winter.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Don't worry too much about the hoist. Put that money into a MIG welder. An engine hoist like the one from Harbor Fright can do quite nicely for lifting engines, cabs, frames, and even hoods if you build/buy a hood picker:

https://source4industries.com/merric...QaAvr-EALw_wcB

If you build either a cab cart or a rotisserie, be sure the wheels are big enough so that your engine hoist will roll under it.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

I have already pulled the motor at my old shop. New garage will have a twin post hoist. I also have the MIG welder but I'm looking at TIG too. That stuff will be for later. I want to get the drive train set first. I'm sick of sliding under a vehicle on a creeper.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

When you mention a creeper it makes me think you're considering a lift. That's a whole new ball game, and well worth it if you can swing it!

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Wow, time flys. This was page 7 after I have not posted for awhile. Just got the garage built and lift installed before winter hits. Truck is in place and I have bought a 327 and a OD auto trans. I could use some help and direction on the placement. Oh, I would post pics but I suck at this internet stuff.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

It's been years since I placed the engine, but I used these Trans Dapt mounts:

https://www.jegs.com/i/Trans-Dapt/969/4771/10002/-1

IIRC, I just temporarily installed the radiator, dangled the engine/trans in the bay, left enough room for the fan and welded the front mounts in. Then I used a tube crossmember for the trans, modified to miss the power brake unit under the driver's side. No tunnel mod required.

If I had it to do again I would have moved it toward the radiator a little more, because the distributor is really snugged in under the firewall pocket. I can get the distributor out, but it's close.

Attachment 1832959

Somebody else should be able to give you better tips than this. I was winging it (again).

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

I left the original manual steering box, so that dictated where final placement was. Ram horns just barley squeezed around it. The hei distributor has room and I run a mechanical fan as well. I used the aftermarket tube motor and trans mounts. I probably have pics on the computer or I can take some if you need them.

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

you got me to thinking about my old 58 Fleet I had back in the mid 70's.I had a 348 with 4 speed trans,me and my wife would hook up the travel trailer with a boat rack on the bed.we drove for 100's of miles.gearing was fine

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

you should leave the cab on the frame with the trans cover removed to position the trans & motor
get the motor/trans as high and far back as possible with a finger width max from firewall to valve cover
these trucks are notoriously front heavy, no need to make it worse :D

using an automatic changes everything, you can't use the stock mounts
if you have basic fabrication skills, motor mounts and a trans xmember can be fabbed for pennies
less if you have a collection of scrap steel laying around

a little 10 gauge flat plate and some 3/8'' heavy wall tubing you can weld this type up in minutes
these are similar to the 1st set i welded in my 58 way back before the internet
i did them in the truck with everything in place using 1968 chevy truck v8 mounts

https://www.fabquest.com/media/catal...file_42_16.jpg

the x-member is a little more complicated
when you remove the stock trans mount you also remove the cab mount supports
you need to build back in this support with the new trans x-member similar to what this TCI frame

https://totalcostinvolved.com/wp-con...ssis%20(2).jpg

this is my trans x-member with bracing the cab supports and a drop out section for the trans mount

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

:wop:

pics or it never happened :D

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

Would love to but I am a dinosaur at knowing how to post on this web site. I think I need to link to a server????? How do I URL the pic?

Re: 59 Apache project 2018
 

I know how from my phone, I choose "go advanced" then "manage attachment" then "choose file" and I can upload from my gallery.