Hi guys, newbie here. I have a 59 MGA with a Olds 215. It's got the original Slim Jim model 5 thats shitting the bed. I would normally go T-5 and be done with it, but I have Parkinson's and at some point in the future I won't be able to use my clutch leg to shift. So I was looking for a better, newer auto tranny to mate up to the 215. Any suggestions? Thanks Ed
The only automatics that are true bolt-ups are the 61-63 Olds RH5 that you have, the 61-63 Buick two speed Dynaflow, and the Rover automatics. D&D sells an adapter plate kit to allow you to bolt up modern GM transmissions. If space is limited, I suggest the unloved TH200 three speed. This is the smallest modern RWD GM automatic. It actually fits in the 61-63 cars without floorpan mods. Yeah, it's weak but behind a relatively stock 215 in a lightweight car, it's fine. Anything else (TH350, 200-4R, etc) is much larger and will typically require floorpan mods. Yeah, I realize you have an MGA. I suspect that's got an even tighter tunnel than the 61-63 Y-body cars.
Joe thanks for your help. The tunnel and floorpan had already been modified years ago when this frankenstein was first built. If I didn't have parkinson's I'd be putting a T-5, but it is what it is. Thanks again
I have seen some mods done using Japanese auto trannies - I believe Jeep may have used some of them at one point. ( Aisin ? ) The mods you would want would most likely be to fit a Rover V8, which is the BOP
( Buick Olds Pontiac ) 215 V8, sold to Rover before the Arab oil embargo - GM tried to buy the rights back, Rover said " No, thank you very much." To the best of my knowledge, any trans that will bolt up to the Rover
(Land Rover ) V8 up until 2004 will work with your engine block. Advance Adapters may offer some solutions-
I have seen other offerings on this site for this engine, but do not recall where at this time.
I like AW4,(Jeep 4L., etc./etc.) Pre computer,(has kick-down cable). I have 2 raw cast BH's. to mate with 25/RV8. Need to finish machine. Art.
How many on this forum might be interested in the AW4/A3-40, pre-computer, 3spd. w. OD. and lock-up, direct fit RV8 and Buick V6 ? This in LBC's and 61-63 little Buicks and Olds. Art.
Hello ? I'm just finishing the machining of BH # 00001. I'll likely mock-up AW4 and 215 bare block in my 74 MGB roadster,(tunnel clearance). Art.
I am not ready to give up my T-5, Art. We do look forward to hearing more about your project!
Yes Carl, I get it. "Some" want the LBC experience and never were or are no longer comfortable with manual shifting. I have no plans to make this auto, paddle shifted. Onward, Art.
Some day, I hope to add an MGB/GT V8 autobox with A/C to the stable. ;)