53 263 Straight 8 to 55 264 V8

**Fryguy** · 12-08-2005, 01:07 PM

Hello, all. I have a 53 special with the 263 straight 8. I found a local guy that has a 264 ci V8 nailhead with the dynaflow transmission out of a 55 special. I was wondering upto what year did Buick continue to use the torque tube setup? If they still used it in 55 could I swap out my straight 8 and put in the V8 and tranny if the torque tube is used.

Fryguy

**58sled** · 12-08-2005, 05:11 PM

My 58 had the torque tube in it and I believe that was the last year. but in my opinion I would do away with the torque tube and use the nailhead/trans adapter to an open drive shaft.

**Fryguy** · 12-08-2005, 05:37 PM

I understand getting rid of the torque tube but that is a major job to accomplish. I can get the 264ci nailhead and tranny for a good price. Just wanted to know the differrences of the torque tube setup between the two years 53 and 55. Thanks

**Judd** · 12-08-2005, 07:06 PM

53 was the last year for the strait eight (Special only) the other 53 Buicks had nailhead. The 55 trans should bolt right up to your torque tube and you may be able to use 53 century motor mounts.

**Fryguy** · 12-08-2005, 07:23 PM

Cool, thats what I was looking for. You think the torque tube lengths would be the same to be able to bolt up the 55 Dynaflow to the 53 torque tube?

**Judd** · 12-09-2005, 06:26 PM

I think there were different length transmition or torque tubes but I bet the Special and Century share common lengths. I'm not sure about 55 to 53 lengths but I think it will work. Get out your ruler.

**Fryguy** · 12-11-2005, 05:57 AM

Thanks Judd. I will measure the torque tubes to be certain of waht I need to do. I know the 264ci Nailhead is not much of a monster but I think I maybe ablt ot get a little more horsepower of it than the straight 8. I know of another guy who has a '56 322 nailhead bolted up to an early ford tranny setup that he wants to sell as well.

Fryguy