Re: [Amc-list] 64 Rambler Classic question

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

Stu pointed out the biggest problem with the 63-66 Classic/Ambo -- the torque tube. You need a trans made for it, adapt a trans to fit it (which can be expensive), or remove it and replace with a different rear axle and suspension system. The 8" axle from a Fox body Mustang or Maverick is a good fit if you're only looking at modest power (350 hp or less) and/or making it a cruiser, not a hot rod or street/strip car. The 8" wouldn't last long behind a built 360 at the drag strip, but would work great behind even a modestly built 360 in a cruiser that's only on occasion run at a strip or otherwise beat on. You can have a three or four link setup made and keep the original coil springs, or put short leaf springs in it (Mustang II have been used). But it's a lot of work to change to another engine/transmission setup. Might be worth it in the long run, depends on what you want from the car. A truck arm or ladder bar setup are other possibilities. 

If you're using it as a Sunday driver/cruiser, I'd keep the 232 and original transmission. If you pull the trans (not that hard!) and reinstall it should be around $800 or so to have it totally rebuilt. $1200-$1500 if they R&R. Find someone familiar with the Ford FMX or late 70s Volvo transmission (both are based on the Borg Warner design) to rebuild it. Make darn sure the cable from the throttle moves easily and is installed correctly when you put the trans back in! The techs need to know that it's a TV cable similar to a 700R4, not just a kick-down cable. If you have a TSM let them borrow it when they rebuild the trans, or make photo-copies of the trans pages (a better idea -- you won't get a greasy book back that way!). Even if they say they "know what to do" take them the pages/book "just in case". 

To use the 304 and GM trans will cost more than rebuilding the original trans. For starters that's a 4x4 transmission. It can be converted to 2WD with readily available GM parts, but has to be totally disassembled to do it (the output shaft has to be changed and a two wheel drive tailshaft housing put on). Then there's the cost of a different rear axle and building a rear suspension. 

Let's not get into what it would take to adapt another trans to the torque tube! A Ford FMX might be easy, just depends on if the tailshaft housing from the AMC version BW trans will fit the FMX, and if the tailshaft length are about the same. It also depends on the overall length of the transmission -- you can only go about 1" shorter and about 2" longer (than the original trans) before having problems. A bracket could be made to fit another transmission, but it will take a lot of careful measuring and a little experimentation to make it work right. If you're paying someone to do it that adds up quickly -- it's a lot of time. 

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Date: Fri, 4 Jan 2008 13:34:44 -0800
From: "Thomas Garner" <Tgarner@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>

Would this (304 from a Jeep, GM TH-400 trans and transfer case) be difficult and wise to put into my 64 Classic? Or should I just stick with the 232 that's in it?

I originally decided to leave my 232 in the car, but my transmission is slipping and I can't seem to make it right with the adjustment lever at the carb. I took it to a local transmission shop and they said it would need to be mechanically repaired. 

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
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