[Laneco]

If he wants a VERY simple system, then a carbureted small black backed with a 700R4 or a 2004R is dang near idiot proof. The earlier versions of these transmission have no computer controls on them. Don't let someone talk you out of the 2004R because it's "weak." Entirely untrue, especially with a basic rebuild. If he is going to tow, the 700R4 is probably a better idea. But the 2004R does great up to about 450 horses or so (talk to your transmission overhaul dude for a truly accurate 2nd opinion). Seeing alot of these 2004Rs out there running 350 or so horse with zero long term issues, even a little drag racing. I'm mentioning this because these are cheaper to get into than the 700R4.

50's pickup trucks like torque. They are heavy. Figure that in and look for about 350 pounds of torque in your engine build. I'd stay with the stock column or go with a flaming river column. I like floor shifters in pickup trucks, but if you want a column shift, well, then Flaming River sells exquisite quality bits. Also IDIDIT is another good maker.

The transmission will require a different crossmember than the factory transmission. There are companies who make them so that the four speed auto is a bolt-on thing. It's a really common conversion that lets these old trucks pick up some fuel economy. With this transmission, try to go 3.73 or so on the rear. It's an absolutely sweet combination. First gear is a little short, which works well to get that big body moving, plus you get the nice highway gear.

Among all vehicles to do this with, the pickup trucks are so easy it's almost scary. The engine bay is cavernous. Everyone makes parts, headers, you name it, to make this an easy project. I would give a look into the fuel injected engines however, just because many of them are so well supported aftermarket. The LS series engines are getting pretty common and every year, the wiring harness gets easier (due to aftermarket commitment).

By the way - you REALLY want to upgrade the brakes and front suspension on these before you dig too deep into them... Lots of bolt on stuff including full a-arm and rack and pinion steering, or you can do a "clip" from a newer vehicle.

angela