Quote:
Originally Posted by Nevermore
And here's where that controversial thing I mentioned comes in. I knew there would be people of the opinion that I shouldn't do it and that it was stupid. Pushrod I get, classic cars should stay classic. Got it. Though what I'm planning on doing is have a classic on the outside, brand new car on the inside. I'm not just planning on replacing the transmission, but the engine too. And you might say, "Go to the dealership and buy a new car. Don't ruin a classic." But they don't make any new cars that look as good as the old ones. If I'm going to buy an old one, I want it to be perfect. People might disagree, but that's just how I want it.
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Sorry if you interpreted my post that way. I owe you a couple internets.
I get your plan and it is pretty common: wanting a cool old car that doesn't run like an old, shitty car. However, a computerized automatic retrofit is a tall order. That is the part I am cautioning against. I also think it would give you an odd experience, as I said in my last sentence. Things like carbs spitting flames and not starting on cold days is shitty and annoying, but having a slightly notchy manual transmission or an auto that chirps the tires on gear changes can complement the "old car" experience. I think you would not get what you want from doing a modern automatic install in an old car. I could be wrong, and if you think I am, then I think you should do it and enjoy it.
There's a guy on GarageJournal that was putting an entire EcoBoost powertrain into a really old F-Series. Hundreds of posts later, he has a hacked up truck that doesn't run and pictures of some sort of skin infection.
It's really up to you. You'll need to deal with the electronics, and fabricating the flappy paddles (or buttons or levers) to get the job done.