1965 Chevy Transmission Swap - Manual to Automatic

In this Episode I put in a new automatic Turbo 350 transmission in this 1965 Truck.
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luckys-stuff.m...
Chevrolet abandoned 1950s styling in a big way in 1960, when it introduced the C/K series pickup trucks. The 1960 to 1965 models were leaner, more sculpted, roomier and offered more power than the previous generation. The C/K series styling was so popular that the basic design remained through the end of its production run in 1997. By 1963, one out of every three pickups was a Chevy. In 1963 alone, 483,119 Chevy trucks left the factory.
The light-duty 1960 to 1965 pickups came in half-, three-quarter- and one-ton versions. The half-ton version featured a 115-inch wheelbase. The three-quarter-ton model sat on a 127-inch wheelbase and the one-ton version had a 133-inch wheelbase. The trucks featured a 6.5-foot or an 8-foot bed. The conventional 1950s throwback model was the Stepside, which had the wheels mounted outside the cargo box under protruding wheel wells, with a step placed between the cab and rear wheels. The new streamlined Fleetside version had a flat-panel bed with integral wheel wells. The "C" pickups had two-wheel drive, while "K" designated four-wheel-drive trucks.
The TH350 is an automatic shift, three-speed transmission. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest of automatic transmissions ever built.
The TH350 transmission was introduced in the 1969 model year as the successor to the GM Powerglide automatic transmission. Jointly developed by Chevy and Buick, it is also referred to as the CBC (Chevrolet-Buick Combined) 350. The Turbo 350 quickly become known for its strength, versatility and compactness.
The HydraMatic 350 transmission was prevalent in nearly all GM, rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks through 1984. It was typically paired with Small Block V6 & V8 engines. It was phased out of use and superceded by GM's 700R4 starting in 1982.
The Turbo 350 is the shortest and one of the strongest automatics

[@radsdad1]

I get so tired of having to tell people who ask why I don't have a manual in my street rod that I have a paralyzed leg and can't safely operate a clutch anymore. Like Lucky said, "you do you."

[@donaldnichols2434]

What's better than Sunday morning at Lucky's garage and a cup of coffee

[@DougPoulton]

What a cool old truck. A split manifold with dual exhaust would really sound cool and EFI would be the icing on the cake. Would make a nice cruiser and actually get good gas mileage.

[@merylpelosi8485]

OMG!!! Have you ever had to listen to a friggen' stovebolt with split manifolds drone onanonanonanon? I'd rather listen to the neighbor kid's fart-megaphoned Subaru.

[@Niff407]

EFI is crap, five sensors and delay from the computer. Single barrel carb on a tuned motor can get 35MPG, I've done it. It's all about tuning. But, I know there's a lot of guys that want to be on infinite diagnostics trying to figure out why the EFI isn't working and you can't tune anything without a computer hooked up, or a chip. That sounds awesome, versus using a screwdriver and a vacuum gauge for five minutes.

[@WilberNStella]

Brings back fond memories. Did same thing w/my 67 c10. You have lift; I had lever, 2x12 & 6x6 blocks.

[@bishop1shox]

Excellent and informative video with real wrench turning. Mr. Lucky is my favorite guy on you tube and television.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks!

[@adubbelde1]

When I was in HS I went the other direction on my 59 Bubbletop. But I couldn't afford a 4 speed so I picked up a cheap 3 speed. It was easy to put the ball for the bell crank in the block, but I had to weld the frame side piece on. I used a Hurst Synchrolock shifter.

[@ronaldhellengreen7063]

The way you did the cooling lines is killer! It definitely looks like the truck came from the factory with an automatic. Nice job bro! Always enjoy your channel! PEACE ✌️

[@garylankford9306]

Glad you are feeling better too. You've had a real go of it with Covid. We've been praying for you sir.

[@richardharvey8939]

Lucky is a great friend to have. Damn he talks fast. 😂

[@marklynders613]

Good work, Lucky … always enjoy (and learn something) watching your projects!😊

[@davehanson1417]

You have become the 60's C10 expert! Everyone with one is coming to you! 😁

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks!

[@albertsugarman6827]

I always enjoy your enthusiasm 😉 and sarcasm it makes my heart go and go and go.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks for watchin

[@TXCherokee]

Good Jon Lucky swapping transmission 😊

[@r3tr0sp3ct3r]

I'm rebuilding a 66 this helps a lot thanks

[@tokslut]

Please, more C10 gen1 stuff ;)

[@vettekid3326]

I don't think I ever put an automatic in a car or truck that originally was a manual. It was always the other way around.

[@gasisthepastendoil]

I've got 119 94 Nissan hardbody and I will trade for an automatic you have to replace a slave cylinder...😂Thanks to china.... I replaced the master and slave probably 9 times and now I'm running dealer parts When you can only drive for 1 day and then you have to bleed the clutch again....

[@johnlee8231]

OK I guess I'll be that guy that tells him a manual is way cooler than an automatic. Hurts my heart a little to witness this but I can't look away

[@beezo2560]

This was a cool one to watch. You always keep it interesting. Thanks Lucky ✌

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks for watchin

[@kechikan39]

Hello Lucky, you may not remember me.l use to live in hermosa bch ca back in the 80s you use to have a black vw notch back.I like all your videos

[@luckysgarageshow]

Back in the day

[@cudaman-yq7pq]

Great work as usual, Lucky! I'm surprised that the trans adapter kit didn't come with longer dowel pins to make up for the thickness of the adapter plate.

[@elwoodbrown7005]

Back in the mid 90's I had a 64 chevy with a 292. I swapped out the 3 speed for a TM350 in my driveway. I used a death wheel to get out the bell housing cross member (and have a real nice divot out of my shin from a bouncing grinder). I used a factory 72 c10 trans cross member from a junk yard. With the 373 rear gear and the automatic, it really didn't like the hwy after that.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

Nice work as usual, Lucky! Sweet install! These whippersnappers and their new-fangled automatics...Save the manuals!😂 Thanks, Lucky! Have a good one! ✌️❤️🙂🇨🇦

[@luckysgarageshow]

You bet!

[@JoseLopez-uu1hu]

Nice job lucky 👍

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks 😁

[@dakotaman4621]

I have watched a large number of your videos and also a HOT ROD GARAGE fan. This video reminded me to thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Since I work alone most of the time, I always enjoy your solo videos. I watch with great interest, on the methods and tools you use. I also enjoy the little tidbits of information you share, like, not all starter mountings are the same on 6 cylinders. P.S. It also seems you have trimmed your hair a little neater, and shaved a little closer, since you have been working with Alex (at least according to me wife) 😀 Thanks again.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks!

[@richs7362]

Would not mind doing the opposite on my 72 C10. Swapping my TH350 for a manual.

[@396M21]

LUCKY. great how-to video.I did just the opposite swap T350 to M21 years ago,crazy to think that the 3 speed manual on these trucks just hung off the saddle mount cast iron bell housing with no rear crossmember.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks 👍

[@erniehenshaw76]

Same as tri fives.

[@anonymousscorpion6127]

I've had several of these trucks over the years, hard to find them with all the emergency brake cable linkage still intact.

[@wayneb7190]

Nice video on the trans swap. Definetly need to charge the lapel mics, a little hard to hear you at times. Thanks for posting the video, helps motivate me to get out in the garage during the winter time.

[@garylankford9306]

I had that same manual trans in my old Chevy. 15mph and 30 feet in first and and you are headed for second.

[@bryanmorgan8940]

Good job

[@luckysgarageshow]

Thanks

[@TheCanadianBubba]

5:44 The song of my people...

[@TheCanadianBubba]

Super nice job 👍that jack gettin' creepy ?

[@lilorbielilorbie2496]

This truck really needs some Clifford Performance parts on it. 6=8.

[@herbieshanger9280]

thank you can I ask why you didn't go with swapping out an automatic steering column?

[@wackowacko8931]

You probably already know this, but - you can take the shift lever off of the top of the truck style NP420 3-speed transmission to make it easier to remove. First the trans MUST be in neutral. Failure to do this makes it a lot harder to reinstall. Then, grab the sheet metal cover at the base of the shifter lever where it enters the shift tower, push downwards and turn counter clockwise about 1/8th of a turn (like you do in tail light bulbs, the 1156 and 1157 style). The sheet metal cover should pop up a little bit, then you should be able to pull the shift lever straight out of the top of the transmission. I'd strongly recommend that you put it back in place as soon as you get the transmission out of the truck, so you don't forget how to put it back in and so you don't lose the shift lever. If that isn't possible because you need to store it in a tight place, a spray can cap usually fits right over the top to keep bugs and whatnot out. If you can't figure out how to put it back in correctly, a trans shop should be able to do that in about 15 seconds.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Yep. Just figured it would help me catch it because I was working alone

[@brand-x7049]

BOP transmission case - Buick/Olds/Pontiac.

[@tonykemper8896]

What there’s no ls in it?? What a shock! Super clean truck ….6 in a row, ready to go!

[@luckysgarageshow]

You got that right!

[@Niff407]

I noticed you used a BUICK/ Pontiac version th350, and just was wondering if you left the top bolts off. (I would've). I have a 72 with that sw465 and can't decide if I want a long or short shaft th350, but when I saw you do this, I guess it doesn't matter, the shaft is too long (that's what she said). For a second, I was thinking, where did he relocate the parking brake.... Oh right, it's an automatic transmission, you don't need no parking brake, even though it would still have one anyways for emergency. Thanks for the vid, Now I know what I'm getting my self in to. Big sigh.

[@forestlawrencegrading9154]

First pickup I ever drove was three on the tree

[@br549200]

Same here, 66 Chevy pickup in fact. Scared dad to death.

[@Dave_Boyer]

Someday, I’ll get a hoist…maybe

[@crestflock]

That’s awesome we’re are you located? I have a Chevy pick up 94 manual with a LS 5.3 and I’d like to convert in automatic is that something you can do?

[@AustinNeaves]

If you don’t want the trans I’ll take it for real I need one like that lol

[@jakegackle7398]

I can't help but think that a manual would help the truck feel more powerful. With just an old straight six and an old style auto with, I'm assuming, three speeds, you won't have the same feel in the truck. I know I'm not the truck owner, but I also can't help but express my sadness that another niceish old one has been, although really well done, made lesser.

[@filmart430]

Exactly what I was looking for. Couple of question…what did you use to cut the crossmember? Also, the new crossmember, are the holes already available on the frame or did you have to drill new ones?

[@luckysgarageshow]

This was a while back but I think it was a very straightforward swap and the Xmember was bolt in with no drilling.

[@filmart430]

@@luckysgarageshow I installed the th350 behind the 230. Is the clutch z bar needed or did you remove it since you no longer have the manual transmission?

[@ajcarrillo5832]

Wassup Lucky, Anytime the owner is ready for new interior send him our way #santysupholstery

[@futten3230]

someone forgot to get longer dowelpins for the transmission :P

[@br549200]

Longer pins would have been nice but that engine’s torque is not going to be over whelming.

[@futten3230]

@@br549200 no but makes install and removal easier

[@br549200]

@@futten3230 yip, but looked like he didn’t have too many issues.

[@hughmc5419]

Is there a cover on bottom for the torque converter, you said it will run near sand. Nice swap. Hugh Mc. Chicago, metro.

[@jettapup]

Excellent video. One question, did the chrome transmission pan leak at the gasket? & if so what did you do? I fought the same brand pan for a week, as it bled making my garage floor look like the Texas Chain Saw Massacre, This even after sandblasting the gasket surface. I gave up and bought a cast aluminum pan, no leekie. Thanks g²

[@holeeshietpyro4072]

wow this is very informative for me and my case, i'm replacing a 3spd manual with a bop th350 to a chevy 4.1 250 engine. while your situation is a truck, i'm doing the swap on a 74 firebird so this swap and information is very beneficial to me. Do you remember the part number to that bop trans to chevy adapter plate? Thanks edit: ALSO, what torque converter type and stall did you put in?

[@64c10shortstep]

What Trans crossmember is that. Want to use the same for my 64 for exhaust purposes. Thx Lucky

[@CCW1911]

Clean install, I can relate to wanting the auto, the clutch pedal on these old beasts would wear you out in LA traffic. What did you do for kick down linkage? Keep up the great content enjoy every one of these.

[@lckycharms1]

Hate to ask, but does a job like this cost?

[@646maguilar]

I would really like to do this to my truck i have a 63 C10 with 3 speed on the tree I have to place to work on If could only find an shop to get this done or maybe get that 3 speed dial up and running Im in Cali any shops around thanks

[@owenwagocho8003]

Will the clutch pedal still work on this chevy after the swap

[@eddydelatorre1993]

Hey lucky have you ever swapped a 8.8 rear end on these old chevys?

[@steveredman6083]

Why the BOP trans with a adapter and not a chevy?

[@davidgrinnell8893]

Where can I buy that shifter and linkage?

[@Windemtight]

So why not a Chevy 350 Trans instead of a Pontiac 350 Trans? Just wondering.

[@luckysgarageshow]

Cost. Had the transmission already

[@domsgarage]

Question, how come you completely cut off that front cross member, from the video it looks like it clears the trans and if any interferance the back flange may need to be cut. Just curious because im looking at my 63 3spd and trying to figure out an auto swap also

[@luckysgarageshow]

It definitely needs to be cut. It’s actually more of a mount then a Xmember and goes through the middle of the bell housing to hold the transmission. When doing this you’ll need to support the rear of the transmission. Thanks for watching. 👊

[@TopTalent-h4y]

Can you do a Mini Cooper clubman 2014

[@jasonp9814]

Just curious Lucky, did you take the clutch pedal out eventually or just leave it in?

[@luckysgarageshow]

Pulled the Spring and put the peddle under the mat. Just in case

[@rodneysitler1526]

OK, I am doing the opposite. I am putting in a manual in my 69 c10, and I didn't see you remove the pilot bushing. Can you just leave it in ?

[@scottr9900]

Meant to ask the same thing. I reckon so, as there is no engagement there, so it’s not needed. But it doesn’t hurt anything.

[@t5montecarlo]

The pilot bushing is preventing the hub on the torque converter from fully seating in the flywheel pilot, and preventing it from mating with the flex plate. Lucky mentioned needing spacers, which wouldn't be necessary if the pilot bushing were removed.

[@sprintcarsandguitars959]

clutch pedal?

[@scottr9900]

Man, Lucky. Ear pro is a thing. Ask Dave.

[@scottr9900]

I suffered a lot of ear infections as a kid and was effectively deaf until I was 14. Just turned the double nickel and am cautious about my hearing.

[@scottr9900]

Side note: A Muncie 4-speed like what was in that conversion Vette you did?

[@maxvictory616]

How’d you do the kick down cable at the carburetor?

[@maxvictory616]

?

[@danwesterberg3956]

just wondering why he used a Pontiac trans instead of a Chevy ?

[@TXCherokee]

Camera angle or a long bed?

[@luckysgarageshow]

Longbed

[@TXCherokee]

New crossmember came from Amazon?..?

[@luckysgarageshow]

Probably. Customer supplied most parts. It’s a trade deal for him to help at shop. We work together on HRG

[@Blend-24]

It is a 1965 chev c10

[@erniehenshaw76]

Needs longer dowels.

[@robseg]

The batteries in those flashlights are available on amazon cheap with a charger. This way you will always have a charged battery.

[@gasisthepastendoil]

a After bleeding to clutch every 3 days for almost 2 years now I'm ready for an automatic.....

[@Tony_in_AZ]

A BOP thm350 trans to a chevy engine ? Chevy thm350 cores are gettin a bit hard to find $

[@unclesquirrel6951]

Personally I blame squirrels 👉🏻🐿

[@billyboxcutter]

Please tell me you didn’t just leave a nub on both sides from the old SM465 crossmember. Cut and hammer out the goddamn rivets. I’m sorry but that’s kinda janky if you don’t. 🤷‍♂️

[@Skoog.]

What was that at 20:51 :)

[@artcrow1968]

did you tie the Transmission cooler into the radiator at all?

[@luckysgarageshow]

Nope

[@atsidis]

That truck 🛻 is screaming 🙀 for a LS

[@bachtomin213]

California - Long Beach is averaging $4.66 /gallon for gas. You going to pay the extra fuel?. Motortrend doesn't pay that much for off camera staff.

[@richs7362]

The LS is a good motor ....but the six is just plain cool!

[@gasisthepastendoil]

mm I've got 19 94 Nissan hard body truck that I will trade for an automatic truck

[@timrussellguitar1516]

Why would you use something other than a Chevrolet transmission? Why spend money on an adapter plate when turbo 350’s for Chevrolet are a dine a dozen ? I been in the automotive industry for 50+ years and that makes no sense to me

[@danielweinbaum]

SAD.... 2 REASONS FOR AN AUTO TRANS... 1. SO YOU CAN DRAG RACE IT. 2. SO YOUR MOTHER-IN-LAW CAN DRIVE IT !

[@Mechanix5424]

No guard on the grinder, no handle on the grinder, not using a face shield, and not wearing safety glasses with side shields while looking at sparks at an angle. Please work safe. It's not worth your vision.

[@radsdad1]

I know someone who's had tinnitus for 20 years from making one cut with a grinder without hearing protection.

[@shawjoe71]

Also a dust mask or turn on a fan to blow the rusty dust away.

[@jeffhyde7934]

He has glasses on! Lighten up people, fricken safety Natzi's!!!!

[@SpatialDragon]

I hate seeing a manual swapped to an automatic. Sorry, I can't watch this episode.

[@itb1820]

That wheel fitment is aids