Also is the 1956 oldsmobile hydromatic transmission better than the 1954 & 1955 hydromatic ?

 

There were two distinctly different transmissions used in '56 Oldsmobiles.
One was referred to as type "R" . Also known as a "single coupling" trans and it did not have a "Park" position
This trans was used primarily in standard 88 models, and is virtually identical to the 54 & 55 models.
The other was known as type "O" . Also known as a " dual coupling" or "Jetaway": trans. It had a "Park" position.
It was used primarily on Super 88 and 98 cars. It resembled the 57 thru 60 transmissions.
There should be a data plate on the side of the trans, If the number starts with R 56 it is a single coupling.
If the number starts with O 56 it is a dual coupling.

 

Ok the I'd # is, 0 - 56 - 277992
that makes it a jet away ?

 

Yes.

 

Thank you

 

Also I read just a little bit, that the 56 hydromatic is better than the 54 & 55 hydromatic, is that true ?

 

It's all in how you define " better ".
The drag racing crowd preferred the quick, clean shifts of the single coupling " R " trans.
It was also lighter in weight.
Joe Average liked the silky smooth, but slow shifts of the " O " type trans.

 

When I read the title of the thread, I heard Travolta singing, "Well, this car is automatic. It's systematic. It's hydromatic. Why, it's greased lightning!"