Hydra-Matic

PeterD
PeterD Member
edited March 2018 in Parts & Pieces
Question - Would a 51 Hydra-matic be the same as a 53 Hydra-matic
I have a chance to pick up a 51 Transmission as a spare for my 53 Hornet. I don,t see too many down here in Australia.
51 Trans # 051-279172
53 Trans # H53-12803 --- Currently in my 53
Thanks.

Comments

  • Kdancy
    Kdancy Senior Contributor
  • Lance
    Lance Member
    In addition to what Kerry said, the transmissions are almost entirely different. Virtually no interchange between parts.   Single range was really is the early generation tranny. Dual range began next generation. You could use a 51 tranny in your 53 but you would loose the high -low selection on drive range.
  • SuperDave
    SuperDave Senior Contributor
    The Hudson shop manual cautions NOT to interchange HydraMatic parts between different models.  So swapping valve bodies is not a good idea. 
  • Courtesy Man
    Courtesy Man Expert Adviser
    I think there may be a difference in bell housing attachment points between 1952 - 54 as one pattern and 1951 having another. Does someone know ? 
  • Ol racer
    Ol racer Senior Contributor

    FYI

    I think having a spare Hydro regardless if single or dual range in your Country is a good Idea. My '53 has a single range in it when I bought it and works fine and no plane to change it. The only difference when pulling a steep grade the drop into low is abrupt where a dual range would be smoother.

  • Too bad you are so far away, I have 2 hydromatics I will give you.  
  • Thankyou all, I appreciate all the information.

    Thanks

  • railknight
    railknight Expert Adviser
    edited March 2018
    I'd highly recommend speaking to long time HET member, Gus Souza, regarding Hydra-matic transmissions.  He's been rebuilding them for Hudsons for at least 30 years.  Quite an expert regarding what will work, fit, etc.,.  Unfortunately, I don't believe he has an e-mail address for you to contact him at.  Perhaps "snail mail or if you're willing to call long distance.
  • 50C8DAN
    50C8DAN Senior Contributor
    You can also call Gus he is happy to help.