Chevy-3spd trans problems

[Big Easy-55 First]

Hey guys,
I just picked up my first classic truck, a 1955 Chevy first series, I used to be completely a 60s-70s muscle car guy. The truck is practically original, except for Rally wheels. I believe it has the original 6 cylinder engine & 3-spd transmission. Any ideas where I can go to verify the numbers-Chevrolet? online?..etc
Anyway, the column shift 3-speed manual trans is giving me hell. It hard to shift and very difficult to get into gear. Can you recommend anything that will help me? I'm attempting to keep everything stock and just keep it looking good and cruising around town.

Thanks,
Big Easy-55 First

[Rich-Md]

My best guess is one of two items. The clutch needs adjustment which is not a major issue. The other (which I suspect) is the synchronizers are shot and the transmission needs to be rebuilt. I’m not real sure, but worth investigating, the transmission may be the same as a 60’s or 70’s 3speed which you can locate at the junk yard.
Best of luck.

[dan-pa]

May want tc check linkage adjustment.worn bushings on linkage.You should have about 2in of play on clutch pedal.

[admin]

Chevy's 3 speeds have long time bad reputation for shifting problems. Before you get wrapped up the transmission, make sure you have checked shift linkage at the base og the steering column. Worn bushings, worn parts, poor adjustment can cause shift lockup and other problems.

[dan-pa]

thank ya now,check the above.if your shifter box on the column is worn out I have one.Cheep./But just put your trsnny in nutural an adj linkage rods on colum in netrual.thats it .but I guess I spell;ed nutrual wrong.But I hope you get the point.Its just a matter:o of adjustment

[Big Easy-55 First]

Thanks a bunch Guys. I just returned returned from a Military deployment and had to take a break from the truck, but now I'm ready to jump back into it.
I performed a "Quick fix" to the shifter linkage levers-using some rubber bushings, brass washers and stainless cotter pins. Although it seemd to work somewhat, it is still very rough to shift and sometimes hangs up.
I appreciate ALL the advice and will try some things and get back with you.

GO SAINTS!!!!!!

Craig
New Orleans, LA
504-460-3300 Cell

[gmindel]

I'm not very mechanical... so I took mine to someone... they said the 3 in the tree were notorious for getting stuck. he said there wasn't much he could do...

I'm going to put a 327 and automatic in mine, so I will just have to bear it until I get converted.

[Big Easy-55 First]

I appreciate the advice, but seriously-Let's keep the "BEAR it" comments to a minimum.
After all today is The Day when all will be determined.
Go Saints!!!


If I go wth a 3-spd floor shifter any recommendations? I'm thinking Hurst, something simple because everything else is completely stock.

Thanks Again
Craig

[romeske1950]

Ya, i went witha 3 speed floor shifter and a 1967 saginaw trans. Butif you want to go with stock transmission, if it is still the 55 then the same shifter i have would fit your trans. Infact, the Hurst 3 speed shifter im using says on the box that is is made specifically to fit a 1955-1958 chevy truck! they run around $90, but you check ebay, i got mine for $40 :D .


Andrew