55 buick trans/torque tube

[MorrowDeath]

Hi i got a 55 buick special that im going to be dropping a 350 trans into but i dont think the torque tube will work so i want to get rid of it. Ive heard that the 3rd member from a 61 or 62 buick lesabre can just bolt right up to my rear end in the 55 and all i have to do is just have a driveshaft made. Does anyone know if there is any truth behind this? thanks

[nvr2fst]

I heard this will only work on 56 and up cars something about the axles on 56 and up are compatiible while the 55's use C clips for retainers. Do a search for member TELRIV, Tom is very knowleable and could put you on the right track. I am just in the process of converting my 56 Special Wagon to a 700R OD Using a Bendtsens Adapter and converting the rearend with a 62 Buick 3rd member. I am also putting 12" Power Discs Brakes on the front. (See attached picture)

[73super]

I heard this will only work on 56 and up cars something about the axles on 56 and up are compatiible while the 55's use C clips for retainers. Do a search for member TELRIV, Tom is very knowleable and could put you on the right track. I am just in the process of converting my 56 Special Wagon to a 700R OD Using a Bendtsens Adapter and converting the rearend with a 62 Buick 3rd member. I am also putting 12" Power Discs Brakes on the front. (See attached picture)

Sweet.. I like those brakes! I too, am going to keep my 322 nailhead, but convert over to an overdrive transmission and probably do a later model Buick rear or Chevy rear in it. I think I have a driveline that'll work.

Send us updates on how it all goes!

[nvr2fst]

Attached are two pictures. The first one shows the 700r4 Trans and Bendtsens adapter installed in my 56 Buick. No clearance problems at all. As can be seen just a simple Transmission mount bracket was all that was needed.
The second picture is of the Ford rearend that I used, The stock 56 rearend just wouldnt work for me. We used the same rear springs, shocks, brackets and Panhard bar from the 56 housing. Rides and works just like before. I am very happy with the results. The car is now much more driveable with the orverdrive trans and the Disc brake setup vastly improved the stopping power of my Land Yacht.