Dodge 318 CI Transmission Swap?

J

Jake

New member
I'm looking to swap the transmission from a 1978 Dodge 2WD 1/2 ton pickup into my 1957 Dodge D100. Both trucks have the 318 V8. The 78 has a 4 speed and my 1957 has the original 3 speed (3 on the tree). I would just swap the entire engine/tranny combo but the 318 out of the 77 needs a major overhaul while the 318 in my 57 runs strong. So what I'm asking is if a 4 sp. out of a 78 Dodge will fit my 57 or if I will have to swap the bell housing/ flywheel or if that is even possible. Are there any differences between a 318 from a 57 and one from a 78? Also would the intake manifold from the 78 fit my 57? Thanks I kow its a complex question I appreciate the help and the more detail the better :)
 
This is going to be an involved answer, no a 318 poly(common in trucks and military equipment) will not fit Los Angeles small block. the first generation 318 is what is known as the ploy, and the LA small block came out in 1965 in the first commando 273's any transmission would have bolted up from anything 1965-1991, with only minor fitment issues but not prior. to 1965. also to change from 3 on the tree ot a floor shifter would have to be done and not necessarily a tough job with an angle grinder or plasma cuter, as long as the necessary safety precautions are used. After all you don't want you job rolling off or over you because you nicked a parking brake cable., and hurst makes the adapter to change from 3 on tree to floor shift, and B&M make shifters that you can mount anywhere. the final differences are that the C1 was a rock crusher trans and the 4 speed in the 78 was probably a Dana made with Saginaw parts and seals. so the propeller shafts have different lengths and clearances and will not just bolt up. sorry for the bad news I hope I helped
 
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