833 trans, big block to small block

[b5cuda]

Hi all, I have an 833 trans (1971 date) with the 4.8" input bearing retainer which I believe is typically used with big block bell housing.  Just wondering whether I can rebuild this trans with the smaller bearing and retainer so it fits my small block bell - or would I need to resize the small block bell housing to fit this larger bearing and retainer?

[anlauto]

If you're referring to a 23 spline transmission, your big block and small block use the same size bearing retainer and can interchange with no problem.

[b5cuda]

Thanks Alan, appreciate the reply.  Yes it's 23 spline and has the 4.8" input bearing retainer.  Since it needs a rebuild anyway I was hoping I could swap in a 4.3" input bearing and retainer so it would bolt right up to my small block bell housing.

[Chryco Psycho]

The smaller 4.35 brg retainer also uses the smaller 307 brg so it will not bolt onto the front where the 4.80 retainer is now , & cutting the retainer down to that size will cut 2/3 way throung the bolts holding the retainer on so you only choice is to use a different bell or have yours machined out .

[b5cuda]

Thanks CP, as always - appreciate the help!

[Fastmark]

Since you are going to rebuild it anyway, I'd  just find a small bearing retainer case and rebuild it instead. All small blocks and 69 down 383 had the smaller bearing. You could sell the case now or swap it.

[b5cuda]

Thanks for the tip, I've wondered about that.  This isn't a numbers matching case for me and I'm not sure how many 1971 big-block 23-spline 4-speed trannys are out there.