I have a 1973 scamp with RB and 727. I have reviewed many threads on the OD install with options from cutting floor pans and tunnels to altering the transmission crossmember to lower the tail of the transmission to get clearance for the OD unit. Has anyone tried to use an aftermarket crossmember like the uscartool for a 518 transmission and welded the mount to accommodate the transmission in a lowered position? Any comments both positive and negative on this approach. I can change the rear pinion angle if needed by angle shims.
I’ve installed a gear venders in a bb abody and it didn’t require any modifications. You will need to shorten the driveshaft that’s it. It’s been in the car for 6 years now with no problems.
Thanks for the info. I don't think I have seen any of your install pics. Would you happen to have any available either during or after?
the GVod is bolted to the adapter, which means it ends up sitting way behind the crossmember. I raised my transmission, with the GV installed, until the unit hit the floor, marked the areas of interference, dropped the GV down and clobbered the floor for clearance. The GV weighs almost nothing. I did that several times, for a perfect fit. I did this for a better front U-joint angle. (68 Barracuda)
I have a 4 post lift. My thoughts were to place the car on jackstands on the lift and chain the car down to the lift. This would make the car unmovable. Then use a bottle jack sitting on the movable cross piece of the lift and press the floor/tunnel up precisely where needed. Anyone tried to do that with any success?
are we talking gear vendors or a 518 style trans??? two different animals.. i know a few guys running the gear vendors in an abody and there was not need to hack anything or lower the trans.. most that was needed was a small dimple in one spot for clearance busing a small ball-peen hammer...
Gear vendors. I was just thinking that If I needed to lower the transmission to fit without cutting the floor, Maybe I could use a different trans crossmember
shouldn't have to "cut" anything.. just dimple.. if ya drop the trans some with that short driveshaft it will be a mess angle wise in my opinion.
You probably will yes. You can buy buy different degree shims that go under the spring perch to achieve the proper angle
