Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

For those of you who have used a Powerglide and a 350 trans.

All the cars I have built through the years have been Powerglide. I have a 350 trans on the bench for the Studebaker, torn down, and considering the option. It has two more drums and two more planet units, plus it is about 20 pounds or so heavier.

The positive is a 2.52 low gear. In taking with others, the results are mixed. Some say the lower first gear is an advantage and with their setup, it makes up for the rotating weight.

I plan some limited street driving to shows and the Christmas parade. Yet, the main performance focus will be on track.

Whatever trans I choose, the rear gear will be appropriate either way.

Let me have your feedback.

Re: Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

Weight and rear gear?

Re: Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

Jim, it will weigh about 3000 with driver. The engine is a 408LS with LS3 heads of about 650 horse. The expected 1/8 mile is 6.40 range.

The rear gear will depend on the trans choice.

Re: Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

lARRY ON MY 3200 # car the powerglide was about .03 faster . now your car car has more power so i would use a 1.86 low gear

Re: Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

Since my history shows me to be a long-time, hard-core drag racer. And since I do not see myself doing much street driving, mostly because I will be in trouble with the neighbors and the lawman. I will continue the established use of the simple, efficient Powerglide. Plus, I have a nice supply of PG parts.

Re: Powerglide vs 350 trans.
 

Hard to beat gear multiplication for what street driving you do decide to do. Plus I actually think the 350 could be close to a PG on the track and 3,000 pounds puts it right at the break even point, the track would have to be fairly good. If looking to run 10.90 pro tree then you’ll want to get it high gear as soon as possible. If running on marginal tracks then advantage also goes to the PG.