Hi I have recently adapted a 700R transmission onto my Studebaker Lark flathead six engine. There is no space between the three attachment pads of the ring gear to the torque converter. The torque converter is seated properly into the transmission. I read that there should be about and 1/8" clearance before you tighten it up with the three bolts. When turning the engine over with the starter it seems to labour but when the transmission is disconnected no problem. I have not applied any grease to the shaft that enters the ring gear, though the depth seems to be enough. Please tell me what I am missing. Regards, Mark

 

Do the engine and trans even have the same bolt pattern? If the converter has been fully seated into the transmission and there isn't enough room between the converter and the flex plate, you will probably need a bellhousing spacer to move the transmission back. I have no idea what a studebaker flathead six requires for bellhousing, flexplate etc. A simple rear motor plate that's been trimmed down will work.

 

www.myersstudebaker.com/chevy_adapter_kit.htm


This is an article for a 62 lark with a 700r4 tranny conversion kit. Check it out

 

Kit looks like a bellhousing spacer/adapter plate and the flexplate is probably specially designed for the conversion.

 

Thanks AlkyIROC and Elevated Mentor(Jon).
I have a machined aluminum plate that allows me to bolt the 700R to the Studebaker six engine. My problem seems to be that there is no space between the ring gear(flex plate) and the torque converter. How critical is this and postings really confirm this but what is the minimum clearance it should be? Can I take the stock GM torque converter and machine down the pads and modify the shaft of the torque converter if necessary to fit the center hole in the ring gear?

 

When the torque converter is installed on the transmission, it's seated all the way down over the shaft and pump. When bolting it up to the flexplate, there needs to be a gap in order to pull the converter away from the transmission. it it isn't, it will cause damage.

You already have a machined aluminum plate for a spacer. Best guess is that it may not be as thick as the available adapter plate. That kit also includes a flexplate. I'm guessing it's a special flex plate that allows you to bolt it to the Studebaker crankshaft and the converter mounting pads are positioned to allow room to pull the converter up to it.