73-87chevytrucks.com
General Site Info => General Discussion => Topic started by: jbsealy on December 15, 2014, 12:44:24 pm
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Hello all,
I have a 1984 c10 I6 (250), 3 on tree, all stock and it is no longer pretty, but I won't sell my old friend. I bought it used in 1985 and have driven it more than 250K.
The last 15 years it has seen little use. I recently replaced the brakes and installed a new clutch. For what it is it drives OK.
The transmission is why I don't drive it often. The column shifter is very worn and the transmission is geared so 3rd is too high. You will remember the ridiculous factory gearing "tricks" in the 1980's designed to make mpg claims. I don't recall at the moment but I think the rear diff is 2:73? The engine is still sound and does not smoke. I would like the truck to be more driveable. I would appreciate some ideas re using the stock engine, but a more driveable transmission. Very appreciated!
JS
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Are you not liking the 3 speed or the axle gearing? Are you opposed to manual shift or just the worn out 3 speed linkage?
Easiest solution would be to put 3.42 gears in the rearend.
If you are wanting to get rid of it an auto could be swapped, but you would have to come up with the linkage and potentially a new column.
How deep are you wanting to go?
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I know I have been vague. I wish there was a viable option for the I6. It would seem that to put a auto trans behind it would use up any available power? I don't mind the 3 on tree, but it is worn out , locks up occasionally etc. Whining some more..... I really don't want to cut a hole in the floor for a 3 speed shifter. I'm sure the best option is a small V8 with an auto. Concerns are cost, wiring etc. I am not a rookie re mechanics, but I don't have the tools and equipment to remove and insert anything. Lets say I would go 2K deep, what would you suggest? BTW I have considered a propane conversion, but this would not solve the transmission issue. I guess what I want is opinions re options. Thanks for your time and expertise.
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A 3.70 axle and NV -3500 5 speed overdrive trans would seem to be the ticket
But you gotta cut a hole in the floor
Check on the linkage
It has plastic bushings
One at the end of every rod
I'm sure they are all worn out
And adjust the linkage
On most Collum shifts the two ears under the hood on the Collum have a tiny hole in the center
You put the trans in N. loosen the adjustment nuts on the linkage at the trans
Put a drill bit in the tiny hole thru both ears
And then tighten the adjustment nuts back
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
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Nothing wrong with the I6 you could put a T5 out of a camaro behind it lots of people have. Of course 5th would be useless. A 700r4 is an option too.
Chris Lucas
73-87chevytrucks.com
squarebody.biz
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Thank you all. Will consider suggestions. Maybe combinations of ideas, 3.43 or 3.70 diff and T5 or 700r4.
Will check out column shift bushings for now. Are these available?
Pardon my ignorance, but was there an auto trans available behind the 250 from the factory in 1984?
JS
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Roundhouse
Thank you for the instructions!
Check on the linkage
It has plastic bushings
One at the end of every rod
I'm sure they are all worn out
And adjust the linkage
On most Collum shifts the two ears under the hood on the Collum have a tiny hole in the center
You put the trans in N. loosen the adjustment nuts on the linkage at the trans
Put a drill bit in the tiny hole thru both ears
And then tighten the adjustment nuts back
Where might I begin a look for replacement bushings?
Thanks,
JS
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Most auto parts store would have em
Where the round rod turns 90 degrees and goes Into the hole in the lever on the column and on the trans there should be a plastic bushing
I once bought a truck real cheap because the owner had taken it to two different transmission shops and no one knew how to adjust the linkage
THey told him it needed a new transmission
I showed it to the seller
And adjusted it and took it for another test drive and it worked fine and offered to pay him more or let him keep it
But they wanted it gone anyway
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Thank you. I will find and install these bushings and see how it changes drive-ability of the truck.
Your story is telling re how shifter linkage can change opinions of a truck. Speaks well of you too.
If I keep the 3 sp the worst I guess is a floor shift, but would HATE to cut a hole in the floor.
Your Advice is Very appreciated. JS
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I feel your pain. I have the same exact engine/trans/rear end in my 84. You really have to wind out 2nd to shift into 3rd. The gearing in a V-8 3 speed column shift is better but you would loose the lower first gear. My engine is about to go so I am uncertain of which direction I want to go. Let me know if you find any parts to help your loose column as I have not and been told they are discontinued and just put a floor shifter in. 7 years of searching I finally found a good column with all the linkages but I may not need them after the fact.
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zeig85,
I hear you. Sounds like you are driving my truck.
I may have a source for the bushings. If I find them will let you know. I also have a shop manual that shows some adjustments.
Here's a pic showing bushings.
JS