1948 Chrysler T&C Fluid drive transmission

[Charles J]

I am about to pull engine and transmission for restoration project. Does anyone have a recommendation for fluid drive rebuilder in the DFW Tx area? I have been warned that this should be job for a "specialist"

Thanks Charlie Johnston

[R Walling]

 Why do you think that it needs rebuilding?

 This trans is called the "clunk-a-mantic", as it acts like that when it is working perfectly.

 The shift point is controlled by the carburetor among other things.  

 

 ( There is one year that uses oil from the engine in order to operate. There are oil passageways through the bell housing casting for this operation.)

Edited March 9, 2023 by R Walling (see edit history)

[Rusty_OToole]

If the trans and fluid drive are working correctly leave them alone. The only wear point, is the clutch. Inspect the clutch and replace the clutch plate if worn, and possibly the pressure plate and throwout bearing if necessary.

Inspect the wiring, if it is original it is probably worn and frayed and due for replacement.

 

The fluid drive is a sealed unit with no external oil supply on the 48 model. Later models with torque converter or fluid torque drive had either a separate oil supply, or drew oil from the crankcase.

There is a seal on the fluid drive that should be replaced if it is leaking. See your factory repair manual for details. Usually they are fine.

 

You might also check the hand brake on the back of the trans and replace the brake lining if necessary.

Edited March 10, 2023 by Rusty_OToole (see edit history)

[c49er]

If the FD coupling is not leaking...leave it alone!!!

I have heard several horror stories of out of balance cut open rebuilt fluid drive coupings...done  to replace the front bearing and possibly resurface the graphite ring seal surface...if it works leave it alone.

If the M-5 Hydralically Operated transmission is working fine leave it alone too!

You don't need to rebuild these two pieces just because you think you should.

Have owned and still own several 1946-50 Chrysler T&C's/ New Yorkers.

 

[Rusty_OToole]

The only other part that might need service is the governor. Sometimes oil works its way up in there and gums up the electrical contacts. Take the cover off and clean with contact cleaner or brake cleaner spray and drag a strip of white paper between the points until it comes out clean. Do not use a file or sandpaper, the points are soft silver. The governor should be serviced this way every 50,000 miles or so.