Gents, Would a Hydramatic transmission cross member be the same for 1953 and 1955? I'm wanting to drop a 1955 324 with the hydramatic transmission into my 1953 super 88 four door. My car didn't have an engine or trans when I got it and the transmission cross member was gone so I don't know what fits and what doesn't. Any help would be great. Thanks
Jesse

 

Start with a tape measure. Measure the width of the crossmember you have and then check against the width of the inner frame rails at the bolt holes attachment point. Remember, the transmission if the assembly is 1955 will have the 'slant pan' transmission clocked for floor clearance in 1955 cars. Will take a some fudging on the 1953 shift linkage attachment. Place engine in front mounting holes and then see where you are when you bring rear crossmember up with mounts from bottom side. Driveshaft length is a jackpot, you might make out OK.

 

One other thing to think about was he possibility that the 53 came with a dynaflow. They were used for part of the year in 53 due to a fire in the hydra-matic plant. Maybe the crossmember is the same. I don't know. I would guess the shift indicator would have a Park position.

 

Thanks for the info. I thought about doing just that as far as measuring. I appreciate it.

 

Redoldsman, you could be right. When I got the car even the shift indicator was missing so I dont really know what was in it. But I do have a 55 olds parts car and will use whatever I can. Thanks for your input.

 

According to the parts book the 53 and 55 crossmembers are not the same part.
They list 49 thru 53 as part # 560402.
The 54 thru 56 is part # 564043.
Good news is that any 49 thru 53 Hydra-Matic crossmember will fit your 53.

 

That is great news. Thank you for the information and your time to obtain it for me. Much appreciated.
Jesse