Transmission / Overdrive: Changing 3sd to Auto

[57studechampion]

Just out of curiosity how difficult is it to change a 57 champion 6 cyl from a 3sp w/o overdrive to an automatic transmission?

[gordr]

This is something that would be best accomplished if you had a running parts car. You will need the complete transmission, with bell housing and flex plate, front half of the drive shaft, transmission mounts (which should be new), shift linkage, throttle valve linkage, speedometer cable (most likely) and pinion, and steering column and the wide brake pedal. And the starter and neutral safety switch, too. If the transmission has the short dipstick and fill tube accessed from inside the car, you will have to cut that hole. It would likely run to less money and grief to trade the car for one already built with an automatic.

[BRUCESTUDE]

I just did the opposite with my ‘51 Commander, fortunately I had a complete engine, bell housing, clutch and transmission given to me. I also had to find a different steering column, shifter rods, clutch linkage etc.. So , yeah, a parts car would definitely help, and would serve as a reference guide.

[StudeRich]

If you find a 6 Cyl. Parts Car with the Flight-O-Matic Trans. and you keep the Rear Axle for Overdrive, likely 4.56 you will have quite a "Zippy" Champion "185" !
You may not like the fuel mileage much though.

Honestly for all the same trouble, you could use a easier to find 259 or 289 V8 and Automatic conversion.
My driving style is such that I never got any improvement in MPG with a Six running almost wide open, over a Lightly accelerated V8 at the same speeds !

[PackardV8]

You gotta do what is right for you, but I wouldn't own an automatic Champion as a gift. The overdrive, driven to its capabilities will almost keep up with traffic. The automatic is a rock in the stream.

jack vines