Hey Buick fans... I have a 1962 Special with the 215 and stock automatic. I would like to upgrade the trans with a more modern unit, preferably an overdrive. I know there are suppliers for adapters to fit more common bolt pattern transmissions. I am thinking a 200r4 or maybe a ZF with a Rover bellhousing. Anyone out there done such a swap? What about trans tunnel clearance, driveshaft yokes, speedometer feed, crossmember issues?
Not sure on the earlier trans. I used a 200r4 on my 67 Special wagon. I replaced the st300 and wouldn't ever go back.Had a trans built locally as it was going into an 87 GN. Bowtie overdrives provided the TV cable kit and electrical hookups needed for lockup. The frame had all the holes already punched. The driveshaft yoke and length were the same as well. Had to change the speedo gear a few times to get it close. I added an electric fan due to the low cruise rpm and the fan clutch not engaging. The overdrive is awesome.
That sounds like the ticket. The transmission tunnel may be smaller on the '62 than the '67, so size of the trans is definitely an issue. Any reason you went with the 200r4 rather than the 700? I'm not really concerned with strength behind a stock 215, so packaging is more a priority. Thanks for the input!