Is the 65 ST400 the same length as the 64 ST400

[Nailed]

I have not yet got around to swapping these two transmissions. Has anyone put a later model ST400 in a 64 Riviera, and will the 65 shifter fit the same location on the console?
I know the pattern is different Park R N D L Verses Park R N D 2 1. Would someone measure the length of the shifter plate on the 65 console for me? I already have the 65 Tranny & would love to put it in. How much if any would the switch pitch change my final drive ratio in the 64, with the pitch engaged?

Sorry this is so long & Thanks in advance!
Duane

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64 Riviera 425

[Dr. Frankenbuick]

The 64 and 65 ST 400 are externally the same. The converter pump and some internal parts are different.

I am not sure about the console, but I bet the 65 shifter can be adapted.

The variable pitch will not change the final drive ratio. This variable pitch helps get the engine and trans coupled at a rpm within the engines power band. The OE variable pitch converter allows the engagement rpm of the transmission to be about 600-800 rpms higher in high stall. The engine has more torque and inertia at the higher rpm. More torque and inertia will get you off idle and rolling faster. The converter will switch back to the more efficient low stall once you are less than 48% on the accelerator. Once into the "good" rpm range, high stall is no longer necessary. The engine rpm will not fall out of range where the engine makes power once you are well into it.

Steve


[This message has been edited by Dr. Frankenbuick (edited 10-30-2001).]

[Nailed]

Thank You Steve,
Would you make the switch, Given the chance? Would you wait until the original quit, it has made it 37 years LOL!

Duane

[Dr. Frankenbuick]

I think I would use the 400 in there until it goes. The transmission gear ratios are the same for both transmissions. You already have a 3 speed, and it can get to low 1 if you want. The only real difference is the variable pitch, and that is only needed to start off.

There is some more information on this link: http://www.buicks.net/forum/Forum10/HTML/000012.html . If you go to the Nailhead site listed on the link, put Tom Telesco in the search box. Then click search. Keep clicking next at the bottom of the messages on the search page until you see posts about the 400 trans and a 64 Riv by Tom. There is a series of messages by Tom that describe modifications to the 64 ST 400 trans in his Riv. Tom drag races his Riv and has over 300,000 miles on it.

Good Luck - Steve