Overdrive question

[lstude]

I just got my 52 Commander running. It has a 64 Studebaker 289 engine and a 63 Lark 3 speed overdrive transmission. I haven't driven it far, just up and down my private road because it isn't licensed and doesn't have lights, etc.

It feels like it is in overdrive. I have not connected the wiring to the overdrive solenoid or the overdrive cable. Can in be in overdrive without the solenoid connected? It free wheels like a car in overdrive.



Leonard Shepherd, editor, The Commanding Leader, Central Virginia Chapter, http://centralvirginiachapter.org/

[blackhawk61]

Yes it can.But it will not "drop into OD gear" without power so it will "freewheel" You need to put cable on and pull out to lock out of overdrive(or tie the lever on trans back)

1961 Hawk 4BC,4-SPEED,TT

Lewisville,NC
(formerly chevpartsman)

[lstude]

Thanks Blackhawk61, I responded to your question on the general forum. Yes, I would like to get to Mt. Airy sometime, but it will have to be after South Bend. Are you going to SB?

[blackhawk61]

You are welcome Leonard....I had OD in 57 Nomad I had so I know a little about how they work.........Not going to get to South Bend. Wish I could.Might get to Tri-State in Asheville though.

1961 Hawk 4BC,4-SPEED,TT

Lewisville,NC
(formerly chevpartsman)

[Roscomacaw]

Len, if it's freewheeling, then the tranny's in O/D mode. I don't see how it could be engaged tho - especialy since nothing's wired up!

The tranny lever that Ken speaks of would BE IN O/D mode if you tied it "back" (as in towards the back of the car). If you tied it FORWARD, the O/D would be locked out and it (the car) would drive like a straight 3-speed car.

Miscreant adrift in
the BerStuda Triangle


1957 Transtar 1/2ton
1960 Larkvertible V8
1958 Provincial wagon
1953 Commander coupe

[lstude]

I'll try that and see what happens.