TorqueFlite 727 904 Cut Bellhousing for Converter Bolt Access

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Torqueflite

Torqueflite

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A search here and online didn't kick back anything, so I'm curious if anyone has made this modification and what people think. I ran across the photos with description in a Hot Rod article. According to the transmission builder, the hole for better access to the converter bolts does not impact the structural integrity, which I think is logical since the hole is far down from the last bellhousing bolts, but I'd be concerned with cracks forming. I don't have an issue reaching the bolts to begin with, so I'm not sure why the modification exists. Thoughts?
bellhousing_cutout.jpg


bellhousing_cutout2.jpg
 
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Never needed that yet, after 40 years. I don’t believe What the trans builder says either. May not cause a problem, but it’s not necessary to cut that out.
 
"Doesn't affect the integrity"??!? Then why not cut the whole bottom off like a chevy? Oh, that's right cuz Chevys have a FLANGE to replace said integrity....
 
I don't get it. Don't they have a dust cover FOR access?
 
I wonder if it would pass tech might need a plate? . One thing for sure it will run cooler. If something's leaking you'll be able to identify what it is. I like it. Just wouldn't want to be the first to try it on mine. I am curious but I have nothing bad to say. Might be on to something. Did a nice job cutting it. looks good.
 
As a trans man for over 40 years that's dumb, no problem with access just remove dust shield!!
 
I cut mine back but not quite that far, maybe an inch. Doesn't really help anything, not worth the effort.
 
And do I need to remind "us" that at least some Mopar automatics had braces to the engine block?

Mopar-318-340-Small-Block-904-727-Automatic-Transm.jpg
 
I've done it for the heck of it on a sb 904 after hearing a few people recommend it. It was a waste of time as the converter bolts are easy to get on a sb. It's more of a benefit with a bb.

converter 4-9-22 003.JPG
 
Seems to me that "if you need to" it would be cheaper and easier to "bend a wrench." I bent my first wrench way back in about 72, and cut and welded a few, as well. Bent a 1/2" and a 9/16 before I had a distributor wrench, and I've forgotten why else. In recent years I've bent another for a carb access wrench on some OMC outboards, as well as grinding material off the open end jaws for the same reasons.

you can bend wrenches, by the way, with a good propane torch
 
If there was a good reason for that modification, Chrysler engineers from back in the day would have engineered it back then
 
I'm wondering what you're gonna cover it with to keep dirt and mud and debris from filling up the bottom of the bellhousing.
 
How many trans/converter/engine swaps have been done since 1962 and how many are cut there?

not needed.
 
That is where the Gorilla walks in.
RustyRatRod said:
:rofl:
Click to expand...
I believe this reply went through and over many heads.

Maybe if it was a commercial of the Gorilla taping a shoot back on a lawn mower they would get it.

This site is very unpredictable. But I love the interactions, Its my comedy for the day most of the time. Actually its the cause of me not getting constructive things done.
 
I can't imagine the scenario or situation where that would be desirable or beneficial, even if you were pulling the trans every day... It's just four frickin' bolts directly accessed after you remove the dust shield- if you even run one. That's like cutting a hole in your hood so you can get at the radiator cap.
 
I don't think it's a BAD idea. Nothing wrong with a little more access. My concern is what to plug it with. Come up with that solution and It's a decent idea. Like @Oldmanmopar said, you'd damn sure be able to see where a leak was comin from.
 
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