Our 400 has a 700R4 in it now; but can not get the pictures to upload.

I took our '55 400 up to Bendtsen's 12/07/11 & left it. It's a winter project for Bendtsen which is ok, as it will free up a spot in my shop for another Packard. They are going to be taking pictures & documenting the process.
Bendtsen advised he rebuilds ultramatics & provides warranty for these as well!! We spoke a little about ultramatics, may do some trading of transmissions with him, so he would have rebuilt ones to ship out to those interested.
He also stated there would be no problem installing a 700r4 or other modern overdrive trans in the 56's and still keeping the pushbutton system.

I will be taking our 5587 up to Bendtsen's within two weeks for them to install their adapter plate, 700r4, driveshaft & linkage for a turn key deal. Scott

How many Ultramatics do you want?? Have quite a few I am more than willing to part with. 51-56's.
Scott

I fail to understand where this is accomplishing anything productive to the subject at hand.
I am new to this forum, not to Packards or their problems that need resolution.
I joined this forum to gather information, insight & possibly contributed something of interest I have knowledge on.
I can understand Kevin's point of view so as Mr. Bulter is not swamped by calls or emails by people who are just inquisitive & have no intention of actually doing something. I personally do not have the time to expend in such an endevearor. I will in fact research, find the best option & do it.
I have a need of a conversion for 3 55-56 Caribbeans and the 55 400, to which I would like to drive often. The Ultramatic in the 5699 currently works fine, but it would be a matter of time until this fails me as well.

I have absolutely no reservation of putting one of Bentdsen's 51-54 straight 8 adapters is my 53 Caribbean. That will be done if I shelf the 55 400 & 55 Caribbean due to lack of availablity for a transmission.

As previously mentioned before, I will continue to pursue a quality conversion; wherthere it be thru Butler, Bendsten or I can get someone do this myself.
Scott

Nordstrom is/was doing a TH400 for the 56 Golden Hawk. I have tried calling & emailing with no results. I have a friend who bought a car from him and was advised there may be a lack of attention to detail with this item. I have no first hand knowledge nor would speculate on the final product from him.
I am going to attempt to contact Mr. Butler for first hand info if he is willing to speak to me.
I will also contact Bendtsen Transmission Adapters again to see if there is anything I can do to get this project going.

Scott

I would be more than willing to buy what is available.
What exactly is available & by whom?

You indicated Art Butler has a supply?? This I would be quite interested in, yet additional information would be greatly appreciated from those who know....contact info, pricing, etc.

Bendtsen has reputation for quality products, as adapters is their business. Thus, I would not be unwilling to try this new product once it is out.

I have no interest in the Sierra Grove conversion.

I have emailed Bendtsen Transmission Adapters a couple times regarding doing a 55-56 adapter. He indicated it would take the winter to figure that one out. I am hoping it is this winter. The adapter he has available for the straight 8 Packard looks very nice. I am going to get one of these for my 2678. I am going to put our 55 400 aside until Bendtsen gets these plates done unless there would be one similar to Kevin's available now. Third Ultramatic to date burned on the 55 400.

I agree with all comments!
The closest trans shop so far willing to do one of these Ultramatics is in Chicago.....550 miles. Is it really worth it? I am under the impression I would rather have a modern trans with an overdrive for a service standpoint.
I offered an engine & trans to Bendsten Trans. Adapters in an effort to get this going, but Bob has already got one.
I am not inclined to go with Sierra Grove Packards kit, due to comments & facts of the 727.
Kevin's 4L60 really looked like a nice setup.
I may have to wait this out unfortunately. I already had the car scheulded to have it painted and interior done............not before I have the problems resolved.

I'm inclined to agree with you that I need three of these. I am on my third ultramatic in 850 miles since engine was overhauled, engine bay and underside completely done. The last one I bought "completely rebuilt by transmission shop" is now burnt. 325 miles.