OT answer via PMor Email if you like I need a primer on automatics, flexplates and

[greg g]

torque converters. I have never dealt with automatic before but my Studebaker kit is set up with an adapter plate to mate the Studebaker engine

(259 V8) to a Chebbie transmission. I have a line on a 700R4 whihc is the 4 speed OD version. I have an adapter that bolts to the crankshaft flange to hold the flex plate. Basic drive train 101 question. what holds the torque converter to the flex plate??? or do they just fit inot one another and are captured by the bell housing??? Also, in doing some reading there is a lot of mention of number of teeth on the flx plate ring gear. I have a starter, so can I determine the number of ring gear teeth depending on the teeth on the starter? I know this isn't the place for street rod hot rod conversions but there is a wealth of knowledge here. I posted similar on the hamb but I'm afraid these questions are too simple for their consideration. So you guys that have done swaps and conversions after you finish giggling, clue me in if you can.

plym_46@yahoo.com

Studebaker to Chevy to Ford (I believe my rear end is a 3.73 to 1) so the OD will give me about a 2.92 final drive.

Appreciate your input.

[Plymouthy Adams]

The flexplate is used with torque convertors with the ring gear incorporated..(Mopar) the flex plate bolts to the crank..the convertor has 4 studs that go through the flexplate and nut up. Ford uses a starter ring gear and as such the the flex plate/ring gear is one piece and the torque convertor then bolts to that...I do not have a book in here for GM at the moment...

[Norm's Coupe]

Greg,

Go to TCI Transmissions. Everything you want to know, and then some about high performance and stock automatic transmissions. You can also buy just about anything you need for them there. They also have manuals they sell so you can rebuild or build your own. http://www.tciauto.com/Products/Transmissions/

[Plymouthy Adams]

I see I hit the wrong button...GM is as Ford...

[greg g]

TCI was TMI, now I'm more confused.

[Olddaddy]

You've probably got good answers by now, but here's my 2 cents. Your flex-plate will bolt to your crank with the adapter you mentioned. The torque converter has threaded lugs welded on it's forward face that the torgue converter bolts to. I don't know about your specific adapter, but my mopar piece uses a standard mopar starter mounted on the tranny in the normal fashion. Yours is probably a gm starter mounted on the gm tranny.