When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I'm looking at purchasing a 72 cutlass with a rebuilt olds 350 and a blown auto trans. I have absolutely zero interest in installing another automatic. I've never understood why anyone would want an automatic behind a fun "drivers" car! I want to install a manual trans hopefully without breaking the bank.
When this engine was rebuilt, a new crank was installed that is already drilled for a pilot bearing.
questions:
- Is the olds 350 engine bolt pattern different from a chevy 350?
- I think I heard that the olds bellhousing (specifically where the trans mounts to) is different than a chevy bell housing?
I know I'll need the clutch pedal assembly and either a zbar with mechanical linkage or a hydraulic setup of some kind.
I'd like to get a used muncie, saginaw, t10, or something similar instead of purchasing a brand new $2400 tko 600.
- how easy is it to find one of these transmissions that will bolt up to an olds bellhousing? do i need an olds-specific trans? is there such a thing?
I appreciate any input, I've only ever had a nova before, and those are super easy to find parts for.
What would you guys do here without totally breaking the bank?
- Is the olds 350 engine bolt pattern different from a chevy 350?
These are automatics but the bolt patterns are the same on the MT bellhousing. LH is Chevy, RH is all other GM V8s.
When you buy a bellhousing, be SURE to get one that has the dual starter notch. There are some BOP bellhousings that only have the starter notch on the passenger side. These are Buick-only. Olds and Pontiac have the starter on the driver's side and need a notch there also.
I want to install a manual trans hopefully without breaking the bank. 
