[Ben M.]

Originally Posted by b-man

So what's the consensus on the reliability and parts availability (slim to none is my guess) for the Hydra-Matic trans?

Did they have a good reputation back in their day?

I've talked to a few 50's Pontiac guys and that transmission was decently reliable in moving these cars compared to the Slim Jim and others. It wasn't a powerhouse and weighs a ton. Biggest concern is like anything else in the pre-TH350\400 days is finding anyone who knows how to make them work if there's something wrong with it. I'm sure a smart and dedicated person with the factory service book and right tools could make it happen though.

[59safaricat]

These dual coupling 4 speeds are fantastic if you can find someone to rebuild it that really knows 'em well. Make sure they take a good look at the coupling cover for cracks. That pretty much their only weak point.

First gear is a monster low 3.97. Even the 2.55 second gear is steeper than 1st in most 3 speed autos. The transmission is "locked up" once in second gear and uses a unique split torque design that's incredibly efficient. Believe it or not, dual band/dual couplings were the most efficient automatic transmissions around until lockup torque converter trannys became common in the 1980's.