Transmission / Overdrive: what trans works?

[bob1944]

I have a 1955 Commander coupe with a stock 259 V-8 engine, I have a chance to get an earlier trans off a 1951 Commander V-8, will it interchange to the later engine and body? Thanks for the help.

[Tom Bredehoft]

I suspect that it will interchange, but might not take a beating, just light duty.

I sounds like you're just changing the transmission, but, if you replace the bell housing, be sure to indicate it concentric with the crankshaft.

[r1lark]

The '51 transmssion should be a T86, which your '55 Commander should have also. The transmission should interchange, with the possible exception of where the clutch shaft support bracket bolts to the bottom of the transmission case on the '55. I am not positive, but the '51 linkage may be different and thus the 'pad' where the support bracket bolts may not be machined flat & drilled/tapped. I ran into this when I used a '48 Commander T86 in my '54 sedan; everything was the same except I had to machine the pad flat and to the right height, and drill and tap for the two bolt holes.

A quick look in the parts book at the clutch linkage for '51 should tell the tale. Just something to look at, hopefully that '51 tranny will already be set up for the support bracket and you will be good to go.

[studegary]

I have a 1955 Commander coupe with a stock 259 V-8 engine, I have a chance to get an earlier trans off a 1951 Commander V-8, will it interchange to the later engine and body? Thanks for the help.

Everyone is assuming that standard transmissions are what is being considered. I don't see where the question indicates the type of transmission. If both transmissions are automatic, it will interchange, but be an earlier version. If one is automatic and the other is standard, that is another story.

[Tom Bredehoft]

Which trans?

Strange, I supposed (that's a lot safer than assuming) that he had a DG 150, automatic.

We still don't know.....

[r1lark]

Everyone is assuming that standard transmissions are what is being considered. I don't see where the question indicates the type of transmission. If both transmissions are automatic, it will interchange, but be an earlier version. If one is automatic and the other is standard, that is another story.

Wow, you are right Gary. I just automatically assumed manual transmission..................

Hopefully he will check back and let us know.

[bob1944]

Thanks for all the help I'm sorry about not saying I have an automatic. Please let me know what fits.

[royvaldez]

A DG 250 M automatic trans willl work great for your 1951 project. This trans was year only in 1955. This will offer you 1st gear start. That transmission runs about $650.00

[studegary]

A DG 250 M automatic trans willl work great for your 1951 project. This trans was year only in 1955. This will offer you 1st gear start. That transmission runs about $650.00

I read his question as going the other way with the swap. He is putting a 1951 transmission in a 1955. As I said, the 1951 transmission will fit, but will not be as good of a transmission as the 1955.

[61Lark]

A DG 250 M automatic trans willl work great for your 1951 project. This trans was year only in 1955. This will offer you 1st gear start. That transmission runs about $650.00

Is that for a used unit in good condition?

Nick

[(S)]

A very BAD idea, Bob! You will NOT be happy with that 2nd. Gear Start '51 Tranny!
A '56 or '57 Car or ANY Truck Flight-O-Matic, would be a way better swap.

[bob1944]

Thanks I have the 2nd gear start now and it isn't too bad. Will pass on the 51 trans, it needs to be rebuilt so if I rebuild one it would be the 55 trans. the price looked good but if I have to spend money I'll keep the one I have. This forum is great lots of info to be had. Just ask. Again thank

[royvaldez]

Opps!!! If you want a nice trans, A DG250M is the way to go. I have one in stock. Hard to find.

[plee4139]

I have a '56 Sky Hawk which has the 2nd gear start. Will a DG250M work in my car?