BritishV8 Forum

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.