Re: Packard Engine to GM Auto Transmission Adapters

Posted by HH56 On 2023/11/4 15:00:34

This might be question for Ross since I have never worked on a 49-50 Ultra but there is a difference in tail housings for the 23rd series Ultramatic and the 24-54th Ultramatic. The 23rd housing appears to be several inches shorter. The case is the same for all 23-54 series original type Ultras so in theory the 23rd tail would bolt to the later improved transmissions but I don't know that for fact since there may be something internal that would prevent it.

I have no idea how hard it would be to find either item but possibly an Ultramatic crossmember and tail housing from a 23rd series would work better in your car. One possible issue causing all the difficulties with things such as the brake shaft and crossmember lining up is where they made wheelbase differences. On the 48-50 models those differences were made ahead of the cowl and body in the engine space. That is reflected by seeing differences such as the short and long front fenders. On 51 and later models the changes were made in the body and frame just behind the front seat and that can be seen by examining the rear door edge opening in relation to the rear tires.

EDIT: I just saw Don't post and if he has the tail and cross that might be the answer and worth picking up the trans. I don't believe I would want to install the original 23rd series transmission in its entirety. By 52 there was enough field data and a lot of things in the unit was substantially improved.