57 Chevy 4 speed upgrade help?

[miller1d]

I am considering changing my smallblock TH400 automatic tranny to a 4 speed during this winter upgrade to my 57. Any tips from anyone that has done this, from adding clutch pedal on down, any kits available, or do you start from scratch?? I see a lot of 4 speed Tri 5s around, must be pretty easy accessible and possible to do? Any tips is appreciated

[Rick Yeager]

I have not done this but a friend is in the process of “slowly” putting a BB with a Tremec 5spd in a ’57. (See my old post—I do not know how to make the direct connection.) A lot of guys favor the 5spds over the 4 spds. He has the clutch and brake pedals from an old three speed car. One decision you many need to make early is whether to use the original mounts by the bell housing or go to a transmission tail shaft mount. He had to use the tail shaft mount because of the bell housing for the 5 sp. It is probably the easier choice. Another problem is where the shifter comes up in the tunnel. Some times it will come up behind the leading edge of the front seat. If you are using bucket seats then that may not be a concern. The other problem, which is most worrisome to me, but Mike feels it will work out right is the placement of the Z bar. If it will not fit, then reasonably he can go to a hydraulic system. Sorry I cannot help you more.

Keep us posted.

Rick

[miller1d]

Thanks for the tips. I thought about hydraulic.....I know of a few 4 speed tri 5's in my area, if I can track a couple down hopefully I can take a look and see how they worked it and how well it is working.