Hello all, I have searched and read some, but I have a question about 6.2s and manual transmissions. I am putting a 6.2 in a 62 Chevy short / narrow bed. It currently has a 230 L6 in it with the stock trans ( I think SM420 ) granny gear 4 speed. How ugly is the conversion of 6.2 auto in the truck to 6.2 with SM420 ? I have a th400 that is currently on the 6.2 and a700r4 variant from an 88 suburban R10 gas engine. But you know, I think I'd prefer the 4 spd with a Gear Vender's behind it. Thoughts? Recommendations?
I have decided the 62 must become diesel. BTW , I saw a thread about truck names.... truck's name is Heavy Metal. We pull stuff.
Thanks for the advice and comments
Dave

 

I converted an '84 C20 Suburban from TH400 to SM465. I swapped to a 3.21 axle and 33" tires. Didn't really need overdrive this way.

You need a diesel flywheel. Gas clutch works. Driveshaft needed lengthening as I recall. Bellhousing and hydraulic clutch came from a '83-'87 truck. The '73-'82 version uses mechanical linkage.

SM420 might be a bit weak for diesel abuse. The iron bellhousing probably won't accept the diesel starter.

my 2 cents.

 

Thanks for the info, I hadn't thought of the bellhousing (yet), I might have the 465 also as I never throw out anything.
Thanks again

 

If it were me, I would try and find a newer 5spd set up from a truck with a blown motor. or wrecked. This way you would everything you'll need. converting your 62 to a hydro clutch wouldn't be that hard to either. my .02.

 

I think I might have welded up the original hydro clutch hole oh well. I like the 5 speed Idea. heavy gas or diesel? or diesel apps only. don't see many Diesels in the bone yards here ( i think they are still earning a living some place)
Thanks again