[drgnwgn289]

I am a pretty big Studebaker buff (like that is something to brag about) but I don't know much about any kind of automatic transmission at all. I was wondering if a Studebaker automatic tranny could stand up to the Studebaker 289 with a 671 that I am planning on building. Any input appreciated (unless you are suggesting using a TH 350 or 400, J/K)

[Studebaker]

I dont think I would be worried about the tranny, the 671 blower might not be the right choice for the Stude 289 because of the rods. The Stude rods are not the best for a supercharged application. The rest of the engine should be fine. The old R-2 and R-3 Stude's had rods problems with the factory supercharger. The rest of the engine should be fine. Does anyone make a performance cam for these anymore, remember it's a two gear drive reverse rotation camshaft. As far as the transmission is concerned, The factory used Borg-Warner T-10 four speeds in the Avanti's and they were fairly reliable.

[drgnwgn289]

The Rods aren't that much of a problem, I run stock rods in my 54 Stude with about 8.5 lbs of boost and 9.5:1 compression, but I was gonna find a set of rods that could be machined to fit the Stude specs, I have a hunch that Olds, Buick or Pontiacs could be made to fit. I don't think that anyone makes a cam for them, I had mine ground by Erson for 75 bucks and you can get a core for like $150. Also, I am probably going to convert it to hydraulic roller lifters and put BBC rockers in it. I just want to do it because I would love to tear up some small block Chevys with a Stude.
I think you are right about the T-10s, that would be ideal, but I don't have a T-10 or the money to buy one. Oh well, I'll figure it all out in good time. Thanks for your input.

[F-1Rodder]

Don't apoligize for Studes. I have never owned one, but anything the Raymond Lowey designed is beautiful, if not ahead of its time. I'm a fan.

[drgnwgn289]

F-1 Rodder,
I will never apologize for owning a Stude, I was just playin around as most Stude guys do, my car is a Lowey designed Stude, and yes, I think it is the most beautiful car in the world, but I guess I am a little partial.