33 hot rod drive train

[jwelch7818]

Ready to get my 33 hot rod ordered asap. A couple questions though. Going to install an LS engine with an auto trans 700R4 or the 4L60. Confused on drive shaft options for this setup, appears to be 2 of the same options, please advise. Will the 4L80 trans fit without modifications?
Thanks for any help in advance,
JW

[edwardb]

I finished the hot rod truck earlier this year (build thread link in my sig line below) with an LS3 and 4L65E, so can offer a response since it's very similar to the 33 hot rod. Maybe you know this already, but the 4L60 is basically an electronically controlled 700R4. The 4L60 is apparently a better match for the electronically controlled LS. (reference https://www.chevyhardcore.com/tech-stories/drivetrain/overdrive-700r4-4l60e/) I have an HGM controller in my build and it works seamlessly with the electronics in the LS. Including a sport shifter and DBW cruise control setup. The interior in these cars, including the footbox space, is tight. The larger 4L80 might fit, but it's going to be some work and maybe take away valuable space. The 4L65 in mine is right at the limit in my experience. Looking at the hot rod order form, I see they don't even list a driveshaft for the LS + 4L80. I had my 4L65E put together by Gearstar Transmissions in Dayton, Ohio. Highly recommended. Good luck with your order and build.

[Dgc333]

FWIW, I have a 5.7 Hemi with a T5 5 speed manual in my 33 Speedstar. FFR did not offer a drive shaft for that combo. They did provide a drive shaft that was the correct length but the wrong spline count on the slip yoke. I had to buy a spline yoke with the correct spline count. Easy fix!

[progmgr1]

I have a non-supported powertrain in my '33 - NA Gen 2 Coyote / 6R80 trans / 2015 Mustang IRS. I bought a custom driveshaft from a local shop for about $400 - one capable of 600 HP / 600 lb-ft torque. More and less expensive options were available. All I had to tell them was the distance between the trans and diff flanges and they looked up the rest. It fits perfectly.

Also, I agree with Edwardb above - shoehorning in the 6R80 was at the limit of what will fit in the '33 without modifications. The footbox is already really small in the '33 / '35 truck and the trans fills up the space in the tunnel with only .5" clearance some places. I had to get creative with the shifter and cooling line installation. Also, I may have to retrain myself to do left foot braking - my size 13 EE shoes don't fit well in the space available.

HTH Keith HR #894

[jwelch7818]

Edward, thanks so much for the quick and helpful response. I'm new to this and it's reassuring to know there are guys like you around who don't mind sharing their knowledge and experience...
Thanks again,
JW

[jwelch7818]

Thanks pro...very helpful...I'm new to this and it's nice to know there are guys around who are willing to share their knowledge and experience....so quick too.
Thanks again,
JW

[jwelch7818]

thanks Dgc....i also have access to a very good shop if needed...
thanks for the quick and helpful reply....
JW