lonestarjarhead

Does anyone know which TH 400 transmission (long or short tail)was behind the 455 in a 71 Vista Cruiser? I'm using the frame under a 55 88 and want to get correct transmission to go with the frame and driveshaft,

oldspackrat

I believe there are actually 3 versions, short, med., & long, and the Vista Cruiser takes the medium length tail shaft.

lonestarjarhead

Does anyone know which TH400(short tail, etc.) is behind a factory 455 in 71 VC. Putting a 71 frame under a 55 88, and want to use the stock 71 driveshaft and crossmember, which I have, for the 455 engine. Thanks.

oldspackrat

There are/were 3 different tail shaft lengths for the TH 400, short(2 door A body cars), medium(Vista cruisers & maybe Cutlass Cruiser?) & maybe Deltas?, & long shaft(98s??). This info may or may not be 100% accurate.
I have some medium & maybe long tail shaft TH 400 cores if you need one.
Scott

joe_padavano

There are three versions, 4", 9", and 13". The 4" is what everyone calls the "short" tailhousing, used in A-body, F-body, and X-body cars. The 9" is what everyone calls "long" and was used in full size cars and I believe in the VC. The 13" is relatively rare and was used in Caddys and some full-size wagons.

joe_padavano

I merged your two identical threads. Typically, you'll get better info if you keep all the discussion in a single thread.

twinjracing

The two vistas I've been around both have the 9" housing just sold the core from the one I parted.

lonestarjarhead

Thanks for the input guys. Looks like I can mount all the drive train in the original place and make the conversion work.

Arrowstorm

I just rebuilt the transmission in my 72 Vista and it had about a 9" long shaft. Hope that helps.

2blu442

Have you posted any pictures of your project yet? If not, please post some when you can.

Several decades ago I saw about a 1956 Buick on a Vista Cruiser chassis. He claimed it was a pretty easy swap. I really like the idea of keeping the vintage look but having newer drivetrain, steering and suspension.


John