Auto trans tail shaft length really matter?

[robert123]

1) Does auto trans tail shaft length really matter?

Thinking of putting a sbc and a 700R4 /Turbo 350 automatic transmission into a 1973 Vega Hatchback (came with stock 4speed).

2) Do most pickups (possible donor vehicle) have trans with long tail shafts?

Thank you,
Robert

[Smiley]

you could keep it a manual...

[spencerforhire]

Tailshaft length is more of an issue with the later, 3-link rear suspension. The front mount for the torque arm is on the tailshaft. With your 4-link, it doesn't matter; most likely you'll be having a driveshaft shortened anyway.

[robert123]

you could keep it a manual...

Yeah, that's true.
When I got it, the clutch pedal went ot the floor ... no resistance whatsoever. It wasn't running and had sat for about 20 years.
Sitting still, it will go through all the gears with some effort.
Guess a broken clutch cable -- anything else?
I generally prefer automatics -- want to get a reprogram kit for second gear 'chirpies'.
But... it won't be driven too much. What do you think may be wrong with the 4-speed Saginaw?

[robert123]

Tailshaft length is more of an issue with the later, 3-link rear suspension. The front mount for the torque arm is on the tailshaft. With your 4-link, it doesn't matter; most likely you'll be having a driveshaft shortened anyway.

Thanks for the info -- that is helpful to know.

[spencerforhire]

Probably nothing wrong with the Saginaw; a broken or disconnected clutch cable is the likely reason the pedal is on the floor. The trans will hold up to a mild to moderate small block, especially if it never goes to the dragstrip with slicks on it.

[robert123]

Probably nothing wrong with the Saginaw; a broken or disconnected clutch cable is the likely reason the pedal is on the floor. The trans will hold up to a mild to moderate small block, especially if it never goes to the dragstrip with slicks on it.

Thanks ........ yeah, keeping the 4-speed (at least initially) would help Line up the engine Great too (I'd imagine.)
So in "Part1" I'll just fix the rust problems/floor boards ...with Jasco Prep and Prime etc ....which will take couple of weeks.
Then put a 350/327 in with a cam.... relocate the battery.... clean out the fuel tank..
get some "non rusty dash gauges...... etc............

Seems like Great Stuff for rusty cars (only $8 a quart at Home Depot, Lowes and Ace Hardware):
http://www.wmbarr.com/product.aspx?catid=103&prodid=221