[robert strohrigl]

need help asap please?
on a 1963 389 , can i use a newer tranny and starter?

IF NOT, WHAT CAN I DO, TO WORK AROUND THIS PROBLEM
the numbers are as follow!!

389 engine, block casting number #543680 date J-6-2, heads 543797 date J-9-2 &J-10-2, intake 5770273 date J-9-2, on the front of the block is 3631 064082 8802 15H,

HELP????

ALL AMERICAN PONTIAC LOVER

[robert strohrigl]

need help asap please?
on a 1963 389 , can i use a newer tranny and starter?

IF NOT, WHAT CAN I DO, TO WORK AROUND THIS PROBLEM
the numbers are as follow!!

389 engine, block casting number #543680 date J-6-2, heads 543797 date J-9-2 &J-10-2, intake 5770273 date J-9-2, on the front of the block is 3631 064082 8802 15H,

HELP????

ALL AMERICAN PONTIAC LOVER

[CataPrix]

Mornin'

Do you know what transmission you have? Hope you don't have the notorius "slim jim" - Roto Hydromatic because the starter bolts to the bell housing not the block. I think, means "don't Know", that a 4spd hydromatic the starter bolts to the block and tranny changes are easier.

This is not the end, however, I think NUNZI has started making an adapter plate for tranny conversions on this engine.

Check to make sure what you have cuz I might be all wet.
P

[Blackcat]

The only easy way to use a th400 is if your block has the tab on it for the block mount starter. If not you have to get an adapter plate.
The other options are:
1. Find a stick setup. (Very expensive)
2. Use the Hydramatic from a Bonnie or StarChief
3. Go to a later 389 from 64 on up.

Usually I'm found working on my Pontiac. If you want to find me Look for the white picket fence and all the old Pontiacs parked outside. And the half dissembled engine sprawled all over the driveway!

[CataPrix]

Hey Bob & BlackCat,

About 6-9 mo. ago there was just a very small article about a guy in S. Cal. that got a hold of this adapter plate and a late model hydro w/ OD and stobbed it in a '62 GP. What was neet was this same guy just went to the junk yard found the tranny and a driveshaft out of a Caddy and carried all that to corner speed shop and said, just do it. I spoke w/ the spped shop guy long dist. and he said, (yes I know "he said" very well) that the whole deal cost less than a grand. I know, yeah right.

Point being: It can be done!
P

[Jon Wood]

Fabcraft Metalworks sells the adapter for the starter fi you decide to use the th400. I don't have their info on hand, but let me know if you want me to dig it out!