Does anyone know which TH 400 transmission (long or short tail)was behind the 455 in a 71 Vista Cruiser? I'm using the frame under a 55 88 and want to get correct transmission to go with the frame and driveshaft,

 

I believe there are actually 3 versions, short, med., & long, and the Vista Cruiser takes the medium length tail shaft.

 

Does anyone know which TH400(short tail, etc.) is behind a factory 455 in 71 VC. Putting a 71 frame under a 55 88, and want to use the stock 71 driveshaft and crossmember, which I have, for the 455 engine. Thanks.

 

There are/were 3 different tail shaft lengths for the TH 400, short(2 door A body cars), medium(Vista cruisers & maybe Cutlass Cruiser?) & maybe Deltas?, & long shaft(98s??). This info may or may not be 100% accurate.
I have some medium & maybe long tail shaft TH 400 cores if you need one.
Scott

 

There are three versions, 4", 9", and 13". The 4" is what everyone calls the "short" tailhousing, used in A-body, F-body, and X-body cars. The 9" is what everyone calls "long" and was used in full size cars and I believe in the VC. The 13" is relatively rare and was used in Caddys and some full-size wagons.

 

I merged your two identical threads. Typically, you'll get better info if you keep all the discussion in a single thread.

 

The two vistas I've been around both have the 9" housing just sold the core from the one I parted.

 

Thanks for the input guys. Looks like I can mount all the drive train in the original place and make the conversion work.

 

I just rebuilt the transmission in my 72 Vista and it had about a 9" long shaft. Hope that helps.

 

Have you posted any pictures of your project yet? If not, please post some when you can.

Several decades ago I saw about a 1956 Buick on a Vista Cruiser chassis. He claimed it was a pretty easy swap. I really like the idea of keeping the vintage look but having newer drivetrain, steering and suspension.


John