1953 Chevy Pickup Transmission Installation - Five-4-Six

As for aligning the input splines with the clutch disc, I simply pulled the spark plugs and rotated the flywheel by hand till they meshed. Don't force the transmission in, whatever you do...nice and easy.

The TKO's shifter stub is easily removed/installed with two side pins (actually, they're bolts). When installing the tranny, it's a good idea to pop it out to avoid any damage.

While Keisler offers a variety of shifter options, I chose to fab one up using an actual four-speed arm. The base was cut, and a piece of 1/4-inch flat stock was welded to the side (not centered, as the stub is offset).

As you can see, the forward shifter location works out just right for the truck application. You will need to slightly modify the cover, as the new shifter is a couple of inches back from the stock location.

For the time being, I reinstalled the stock rear crossmember to support the back of the transmission. It could be used permanently (notice the biscuit-type mounts in place), but I may end up swapping for an adjustable tube that will accept the stock mount.

The mechanical speed-o is a snap to install. Just clip the plastic gear on the end, remove the rubber plug in the transmission...

...and the tranny portion is done. The TKO is also equipped with a neutral safety switch as well as a backup light switch, so you can make your truck all safe-like!

Yep, even the speed-o end of the cable is correct. No worries about sending anything back--unless you've got some mismatched parts in your truck.

To fulfill the entire package option, you need to provide Keisler with measurements/info for a new driveshaft...

...They will then send you a DOM alloy steel driveshaft complete with brand-new U-joints and a tranny yoke.

Don't forget to reconnect your clutch fork to the clutch pedal. When adjusting, make sure you have roughly 1 inch of pedal free play.

Save for slipping the new driveshaft in place (it was ordered just as this story was going to press!), the Keisler TKO-500 is in the can--actually, in the truck! Easily a day's job, even if done solo. While the old 235 will certainly be enjoying lower-revving highway miles, it will soon be replaced by a brand-new 235 currently in the works with Egge Machine and Patrick's Antique Cars & Trucks. Stay tuned.