Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Hi all,
does anybody have any experience of the Bentsen Straight 8 transmission adapter? Is there space for a GM 2004R in a 1953 Convertible without any changes/cutting? Need to stay stock so I can easily swap back to original.
I do a lot of miles and need a gearbox with overdrive.
Thanks
Jan

There have been a few. I don't know how often Packard Dude checks the forum so he may miss your post since they disappear from the recent topics list rather quickly but he was the last to comment on a conversion. You might send him a PM and see if he picks up and can answer your questions. If the 700R4 will fit I would expect the 200 will too. Probably the biggest issue with the conversion on the S8 is the need for 12v to power the mini starter.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb ... .php?post_id=204506#forumpost204506

Did you also have a V8 where you were considering doing the conversion? If so did you finish it and how did that turn out?

Hi Howard,
I'll try to contact him. Thanks. Yes I'm doing it on my -56 Clipper. Engine overhauled and the new gearbox are joined together and painted. Looks nice but has been like that for a year now since I have very little time to work on it. Going to lift the body from the frame and change all rubbers so it's kind of much work...
All The Best
Jan
Spain

Howard, Here are some photos of the transmission swap on the 56 Clipper
/Jan

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Thanks for posting the photos on your V8 conversion. Have you decided whether to try the modification and welding on of that tiny linkage piece so the throttle cable mounts directly to the carburetor or to move it and come up with something to take advantage of that easier to work spot on the linkage at the firewall.

I made a special arm and fixture for the cable...here are som extra photos
Cheers
Jan

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Hi, Jappe. Sorry for not getting right back to you. In regards to the conversion on my '51: Nothing has to be cut or altered besides the driveshaft. a 200R4 is slightly smaller than a 700, and both fit quite easily. The rear mount can be used with some ingenuity, or a new mount can be made to work with the original bolt holes in the frame. I used Lokar shift linkage with the stock column shift, and I used their dipstick housing as well. I would NOT use the original trans cooler that's part of the lower radiator hose. An aftermarket cooler in front of the radiator works well.

Since the Bendsten conversion comes with it's own starter (a modern, small, gear reduction, high-torque unit) you must convert to 12v (or 6/12). I had my trans guy set it up for complete governor activation of the lock-up converter (no electric).

It totally transforms the car. You don't have to floor it to keep up with traffic from a light and it loafs on the freeway in OD.

Good luck, and ask any questions you may have.

Bob

Hi Bob,
Thanks for your reply.
Do you have any pics of your set up? How did you do with the speedometer?
Any parts numbers for the Lokar stuff you used?
Thanks
Jan

The work has started....just a few photos for now

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How did it turn out? How did the driving improve? Would you do it again or differently?

Thanks,
John R.