I am sure that this question has been probably asked before and if so I am sorry. I have a 1971 442 455 auto and wondered what it would take to convert it to a 4 speed. What needs to be done, parts, and approximate cost would be appreciated. I am not that mechanically inclined so I need some real guidence.

Also, how would this affect the overall value of the car?

Thanks

 

I would say asked 100 times....but here goes it again. You need all linkages, rods, pedals, bellhousing, trans, shifter, stick flywheel, clutch pressureplate, disc, fork, throwout bearing from a stick car. Most important you need the end of your auto crankshaft machined to accept a bearing or bushing as an auto crank is different than a stick crank in this respect. Or you could use an adapter supplied by some Olds only parts places....You will likely need to modify the floor opening if you already have a floor shifted automatic for the 4speed boot and or console. This is the jist of it someone else can chime in with the rest. Sometimes this changeover package can be gotten on ebay and the complete setup may cost about 2000 dollars......

 

I think you're low on your estimate. A nice 4 speed console can cost $650-750. Then add your trans for another 6-800. A 70-72 shifter handle for console alone is $300+. Plus all the other stuff adds up quick. Might be closer to $2500?

 

Sorry to be the one hundred and first to ask this question.
I appreciate the info and will look into to it more maybe with a local trans guy.
Does any one know if this will affect the over all value as this car is all original?
I do have a floor console now with the automatic.

I can't believe you guys don't charge for all your help (HA HA)

 

Well, you can get an AT console for $150 on ebay and the parts to make it a 4spd console for about $150 repro...

 

I did it to a 70 442, with 100% GM parts.

Parts and refurb costs were $3000.

 

My442 did you purchase new GM parts and if so from a GM dealer?

 

The automatic transmission had a vin number stamped in it. If you decide to do the swap I believe it would be wise to save that transmission if you have a place to store it. That way if you ever want to make it correct numbers matching again you could. Cutting a hole in the transmission tunnel is the only thing that would need to be patched to go back the other way. Everything else is a bolt on. So many of these cars were abused and original drivetrain blown and replaced. It gives me pause to see one loose that detail. But it's your car and manual transmissions are a kick in the pants to drive. I'd just consider saving the automatic and all the parts you remove. My 2 cents. John

 

My assessment is that if you can find most of the stuff used and inexpensively, it is worth it if you want a 4 speed. Buying the stuff new would be difficult for some parts, and overall expensive. What will be your usage? Stock stuff is good for the street, but if you are buying stuff anyway, get stronger stuff if you might consider the drags. For example, used Muncies are hard to find and most sellers think they are made of gold. Summit and Jegs offer super T 10s at a good price, but still around $1500. For serious racing, Jerico trannies cost $3000. Instead of a stock bellhousing and flywheel, get stuff that won't blow up (your feet are discontinued also). You can find steel flywheels for about $130, and a Quicktime or Lakewood bellhousing for under $500 (the Quicktime is very strong and weighs about 2/3 what a Lakewood does). Stuff like pedals and linkage mean trips to the junkyard or surfing ebay. Console or boot on the floor is your choice, as is your shifter. You can pay more for a "correct" shifter than a superior aftermarket one.

Overall I think the choice should be based on your personal preference. Myself, I just have to have a four speed, and i do what is needed to get there.

 

Thanks Blu and Run your comments are well taken.
I here you about the whole 4 speed kick in the pants thing. I will have to do some soul searching as I do not like changing when the car is all original I think a double check on the Vin # on the tranny would be a good thing to do - thanks Blu.
To clutch or not to clutch?